The impact of bequests

When Megan McGill was a senior studying plant biology at Montana State University, she was awarded the Ralph B. Millice scholarship.

The Ralph B. Millice scholarship was established in 2008 by a gift in the will of Margaret Moore, in memory of her father, Ralph Millice. The purpose of the scholarship is to provide a need-based scholarship for an upper class or graduate agricultural student, preferably in the plant disease study area. Margaret Moore was a longtime resident of Livingston, Montana, and a supporter of Montana State University and the College of Agriculture.

In an interview, Megan describes the impact scholarships had and about her experience at Montana State University.

On the impact of scholarships

“For me, the most challenging part of being a student has been finding the money to attend school full-time. I would have struggled to complete my undergraduate education at Montana State University without scholarships. I am extremely grateful for the generosity of the family of Robert Millice.

I appreciate the generosity of all of the scholarship donors who have helped me to get where I am today, and in the future I hope to be able to pay it forward and support students with a scholarship of my own.”

On her education at MSU

“I decided to attend Montana State University because of their status as a Land Grant University. I wanted to attend a school with a strong agriculture program and Montana State University in Bozeman was a perfect fit.

Attending Montana State University has given me opportunities to explore the field of plant science. Since moving to Bozeman I've been able to use my degree in Plant Biology to become more involved in agriculture and I'm excited about all the opportunities I have for the future!”

On her most rewarding MSU experience

“The most rewarding experience I have had at Montana State University was the summer that I worked at the Western Agricultural Research Center in Corvallis, MT. As an intern, I learned a lot about the practical applications of plant science while helping test different crop varieties and collecting insect specimens from apple orchards throughout the Bitterroot Valley.”

Megan’s future is bright, thanks to Margaret and donors like her!

After graduating with her bachelor’s degree in plant biology, Megan joined the plant sciences PhD program at Montana State University.

“I am especially interested in plant physiology and the role that genetics plays in physiological responses of plants to pests and pathogens. I am excited to use my research to help solve some of the problems facing farmers and producers in Montana,” Megan said.

Give the Gift of Education

If you would like to explore how a gift in your will could help impact students at Montana State University far into the future, the the Montana State University Alumni Foundation would be honored to help. Please contact Kevin Brown at 406-994-4815 or kevin.brown@msuaf.org.