Folds of Honor North Texas is recognizing Military Appreciation Month this May by highlighting one of its scholarship recipients, Michaela Michaelis, a University of Mississippi senior.

The North Texas nonprofit organization provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen or disabled military members and first responders.

Michaelis was raised in the Dallas–Fort Worth area with her two older brothers and parents. Her father, an F-16 pilot fighter pilot in the United States Air Force, died when she was 15 years old and in her first year of high school. In addition to the emotional impact of his loss, the resulting financial strain made the prospect of pursuing higher education feel uncertain.

Michaelis began exploring scholarship opportunities and was introduced to Folds of Honor North Texas through friends who had also received support from the organization.

Thanks to the scholarship she was awarded, Michaela was able to attend the University of Mississippi and fully participate in campus life, including joining Greek life, without the added burden of financial stress.

“The scholarship I received from Folds of Honor North Texas has meant so much more to my family and me than just financial support,” Michaelis said. “It has honored my father’s service and given it lasting purpose by allowing me to continue my education. Because of this organization, I’m able to pursue my chosen career path, and I plan to remain involved with Folds of Honor North Texas to help provide other families with the same opportunity I was given. I strongly encourage eligible students to apply; you never know how life-changing it can be.”