The Ellie Wittstruck Memorial Scholarship was created to honor the life and memory of a beautiful soul who was tragically lost too soon. Ellie Wittstruck, a 2024 graduate of Sartell High School, was full of promises and had big dreams. She planned to join the United States Coast Guard and later attend college to pursue a degree in animal sciences. Sadly, Ellie’s life was cut short in a devasting automobile accident on July 22, 2024, leaving an irreplaceable void in the hearts of her family, friends, and community.
Ellie was an active volunteer at the Tri-County Humane Society, where she found joy in spending time with the animals. She had a deep love and passion for animals and dreamed of a future where she could care for and make a difference in their lives. Whether she was walking dogs, cleaning cages, or simply providing companionship to the animals in the shelter, Ellie’s heart was always full when she was around them.
To honor Ellie’s love for animals and her commitment to helping others, her family established the Ellie Wittstruck Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship aims to support a Sartell High School graduate who shares Ellie’s passion for animals and is pursuing a degree in animal science, veterinary medicine, or a related field.
“It is important to us that Ellie’s spirit lives on, and through this scholarship, we hope to support a young person who is dedicated to the same kind of care and compassion that Ellie showed every day,” said Ellie’s family. “Ellie’s love for animals was a big part of who she was, and we want to help others who share that love continue on the path she was so excited about.”
The scholarship is more than financial support-it’s a tribute to Ellie’s kind and selfless nature, and a way for her memory to continue making a positive impact on the world. By supporting students who are working toward careers in animal care and sciences, Ellie’s legacy will live on in those who dedicate their lives to the welfare of animals, just as she had intended.
As the Ellie Wittstruck Memorial Scholarship grows, it serves as a reminder of the light Ellie brought to those around her and the future she was meant to have. Her family hopes that through this scholarship, they can keep Ellie’s memory alive while helping students achieve their dreams in honor of her passion and commitment to making a difference.