Tempe, AZ, January 28, 2022: Today, the Tempe Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee (MAC) officially opened the Merle Fister Veteran Scholarship application. This scholarship began in 2019 in honor of United States Air Force Veteran Merle Fister who donated funding to the Tempe Chamber’s MAC after his passing.

The annual $1,000 Merle Fister Scholarship is awarded to an Arizona veteran who is seeking to complete their academic career, and is given based on character, leadership, academic pursuits, and financial need. Announced on March 8th, the scholarship recipient will take part in the Red, White, and Blue Awards Ceremony held virtually on March 23^rd to receive their recognition.

“Knowledge above all else is important to one’s growth,” said MAC Chair Kevin O’ Brien. “Merle Fister provides an opportunity to one deserving veteran to follow their path to knowledge and the Military Affairs Committee is honored in selecting the next deserving candidate.”

Applicant requirements may also include:

Must be a military veteran, reservist, or member of the national guard

Must currently attend or have been accepted into an accredited college or trade school

To view the Autobiography of Merle Fister, click here.

Scholarship applications are due by February 22, 2022 and can be submitted through an online portal. Click here to apply.

About the Tempe Chamber of Commerce:

For more than a century, the Tempe Chamber of Commerce has built an environment that enhances the economic vitality of its membership and the business community as a whole. Representing more than 650 businesses, the Tempe Chamber of Commerce strengthens the local economy through network development, advocacy, professional development and influence. It regularly advocates for a favorable business climate through interactive public policy engagement and provides ongoing representation in government at local, state and federal levels. For more information on the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.tempechamber.org or call 480-967-7891.