Mission College Prep creates the ‘Greg Morris Memorial Award’
New student award is inspired by the service and kindness of the late Central Coast community leader
– Following the loss of Greg Morris, a leader whose generosity and kindness touched the lives of many, his children worked with Mission College Preparatory Catholic High School to honor his memory with the Greg Morris Memorial Scholarship Award.
From left to right: Kerry Morris, award-winner Kush Yadav, Vicky & Brendan Morris.
Morris long shared a close connection to Mission College Prep and played a critical role in the efforts to reopen the school in 1983, and to expand the school and its ability to serve local students in 2004. Mission College Prep President, James Childs, noted, “Greg Morris was a generous and creative Mission advocate. Alongside other strategic partners, Greg’s sincere commitment to Catholic secondary education in San Luis Obispo is a beautiful legacy that continues to endure.”
The award recognizes students who, like Morris, “demonstrate their dedication to the Catholic faith and education, embody a strong compassion for people in need and show a commitment to the community though genuine kindness and respect for others.” These qualities were evident in all aspects of Morris’ life from his early childhood into his professional career working to grow his family’s insurance business, today known as Morris & Garritano. His compassion and care for others shined bright in his involvement on numerous community boards, regular volunteer work and support of service organizations.
“As we look to recognize the impact that our Mission College Prep students have in their communities, the creation of the Greg Morris Memorial Award was a natural fit,” said Director of Mission Advancement Chris Blake. “When we consider his unwavering commitment to others and the impact he had to not only reopen the school more than 30 years ago but to support the school’s growth just over 10 years ago, it is an honor for us to continue to embrace his memory as a part of the fabric that is Mission College Prep.”
Morris left behind a legacy to both his family and those he inspired. His son and daughter, Brendan and Kerry Morris, continue their father’s work both professionally and in community support. “As we reflected upon the legacy of our father and his unwavering belief in the potential of students from Mission College Prep, the idea of an endowment to support students through this award arose.” Brendan said, “It’s an honor to have my father remembered each year; recognizing students that embody Catholic inspiration through their care for others and efforts to improve the community allow his memory and efforts to continue inspiring us and impacting us everyday.”
Alyssa Caldera and Kush Yadav, of the upcoming graduating class of 2017, are the first Mission College Prep students to receive this award. Both Mission College Prep and the Morris family look forward to many recipients to come, continuing the memory of Greg Morris’ terrific service to the community.
From left to right: Kerry Morris, award-winner Kush Yadav, Vicky & Brendan Morris
Comments
