Scholarship created for nontraditional biology majors
The Morehead State University Foundation is proud to announce the creation of the Surmont Family Biology Scholarship, a new fund created to help MSU students pursuing a degree in biology.
This endowment was made possible through a generous gift from Joe and Sherry Surmont (Class of 2015, 2018). The couple founded the scholarship to honor Joe's parents, Al (Class of 1980, 1990) and Helen Surmont, for their lifelong commitment to education and their desire to give back to the next generation of biology students.
Al and Helen met as teenagers at Lafayette High School in Lexington, where they both graduated in 1967. A year later, they married and embarked on a life journey filled with mutual support and meaningful contributions to the world around them.
Al began his career in 1969 with the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife, working in the Fisheries Division. In 1973, Al's career brought the pair to Morehead, a move that allowed him to pursue his dream of higher education.
"We have always been an outdoor-minded couple throughout our marriage. Al followed his passion by working with the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife, which ultimately brought our family to Morehead," Helen said. "His career required an advanced degree, which he proudly earned through Morehead State University, a journey we supported together every step of the way."
Al earned a bachelor's degree in 1980 and later completed a master's in biology and environmental science in 1990. During his time at MSU, he was inspired by several professors, including Dr. Gerald DeMoss (Class of 1966, 1968), Dr. Howard Setzer, Dr. Les Meade (Class of 1966, 1969), Dr. Jerry Howell, and Fred Busroe.
Al's passion for wildlife extended beyond his career, as he was the founder of the Cave Run Chapter of Ducks Unlimited, an organization dedicated to conservation. After 35 years of service, Al retired from the Fish & Wildlife Service.
While Al pursued his career and education, Helen made her own mark on the Morehead community. She became a lifetime member of the Rowan County Historical Society, serving as president three times, and was an active member of the Midland Trail Sweet Adelines, sharing her adoration of music during the 1980s and 1990s. Helen retired after 27 years of service with the Kentucky Department of Unemployment Insurance.
The creation of the Surmont Family Biology Scholarship will provide aid to nontraditional biology majors at MSU. The Surmonts are excited to support students who, like Al, balance their educational aspirations with other life responsibilities, ensuring future generations can pursue their dreams.
"Even with some tuition assistance from MSU, I saw firsthand how financially demanding it can be to pursue a degree while supporting a family," said Al. "Creating this scholarship reflects our family's desire to support students who are balancing real-life responsibilities while working toward their educational goals."
For more information about the Surmont Family Biology Scholarship or to contribute to this fund, please contact the MSU Foundation at giving@moreheadstate.edu.
