Selma and Mary Elizabeth Russell Scholarship

Selma Givens Russell was born on September 12, 1879, in Murray, Kentucky. Mary Elizabeth Compton was born on December 28, 1880, in Lynnville, Tennessee. 

Selma and Mary Elizabeth married on December 14, 1902, in Taylor, Texas. The wedding announcement published in their local newspaper shared that they were "two of our most popular young people, both having been practically reared here." Selma and Mary had nine children. 

At the age of 59, Selma died on April 16, 1939, in Merkel, Texas. At the age of 68, Mary Elizabeth died on June 12, 1949, in Merkel, Texas.

This scholarship fund was established to honor the memory of Mary Elizabeth and Selma. 

Eligibility

• A graduate from Merkel High School, attending any accredited 2-year or 4-year institution or vocational/trade school.