The Hallie Marie Women in IT Scholarship Fund was created to honor the life and memory of a beautiful woman who touched so many lives. Hallie leaves a legacy of compassion far greater than her years. Hallie embodied kindness in everyday ways, extending it to everyone who crossed her path—from the person in the checkout line to the pets she loved so dearly. An enthusiastic advocate for mental health care, she spoke openly about the importance of access, empathy, and support. She worked to break stigma and to remind others that struggling is not a failure—and that help should never be out of reach. Her courage in these conversations touched many lives and helped others feel less alone.
Hallie was also known for her vast Squishmallow collection, her love of thrifting, and her real sense of adventure for God’s creation. She earned multiple PADI scuba diver certifications. She enjoyed diving with her parents and sister. Hallie had also been a dressage (horseback) rider and was close to obtaining her bronze medal.
Hallie found her calling in IT and worked for the City of St. Cloud in Information Technology (IT). Her love and passion for her IT family and talent was quite evident, and she had hoped to retire one day from the IT department. Hallie loved learning cutting edge technology and finding ways to meaningfully touch people’s lives. This included rebuilding computers, maintaining sensitive communications equipment for the St. Cloud Police Department, facilitating communication in various city departments, working on cybersecurity platforms, and helping family and friends learn social media platforms. Hallie felt that women were very underrepresented in the field of IT and was a strong advocate of women entering the IT field and advancing their technical skills.
She was currently attending Arizona State University online and would have graduated in 2028 with her Bachelor of Science degree in IT, specializing in Cybersecurity. She really enjoyed her ethical hacking courses.
“Even in death, Hallie’s legacy can live on through the next generation of women who want a rewarding career in IT technologies and applications,” said Jeff and Julie Johnson. “We can’t think of a better way to honor our daughter’s memory by encouraging and helping women achieve their educational goals.”
The scholarship provides an opportunity for women IT students to gain important knowledge and skills interested in IT careers in a male dominated industry. By supporting IT students who are working toward an IT career, Hallie’s legacy will live on in those who dedicate their lives to providing a critical public service.
The Hallie Marie Women in IT Scholarship Fund is a charitable fund of the Central Minnesota Community Foundation, your local giving partner and resource. If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected] or call (320) 253-4380.