Three Rivers College and the Three Rivers Endowment Trust have established a scholarship for students pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Development.
The Ava Grace Memorial Scholarship will be awarded for the first time in Fall 2026. It was funded by the family of Ava Grace Felps and spearheaded by her grandmother, Malissa Timbush, and her parents, Michele and Brandon Felps. Ava Grace was 8 years old when she passed away in 2025.
“Ava danced through life with a softball in hand, chasing butterflies beneath sunny skies, singing songs from the depths of her joyful heart, and filling every room with laughter and light. Her faith was unwavering, guiding her gentle spirit and teaching her to love without limits,” Michele Felps said. “She never met a stranger, only friends she hadn’t made yet, and she was always ready to lend a helping hand, offer a kind word, or share one of her beautiful smiles. Though her time on earth was only 8 precious years, the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the light she brought into this world will shine forever. She was a blessing, a gift, and a spark of heaven among us. Loved beyond words, missed beyond measure, and carried in our hearts always.”
The endowed funds will allow for perpetual awards, and the family will continue fundraising efforts to increase the annual awards.
“We are so honored to play a small role in honoring Ava Grace’s legacy,” said Michelle Reynolds Director of Development at Three Rivers College and liaison with the Endowment Trust. “These funds will be a gift that keeps on giving to our students in years to come.”
Three Rivers students receive more than $14 million in financial aid each year. For more information, trcc.edu/pay-for-college/financial-aid/.
