GBHEM Scholarship Enables Mertes to Pursue Sports Economics Dream
“I am so grateful and humbled. This scholarship helps me fulfill my dream of attending college, and I look forward to continuing to grow my faith within the Methodist Church throughout college and beyond.”
— Matthew Mertes, The Ohio State University
Matthew Mertes is driven by two passions: sports and numbers. The intersection of these interests led him to studying Sports Economics. As a recipient of the Rev. Dr. Karen Layman Gift of Hope Scholarship from the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry for $1,000, he has been able to pursue his dream of attending The Ohio State University.
“Being from Tennessee, going to college out of state has always been a dream of mine,” Mertes says. “Ohio State felt like a small community within a very large campus, and I know it will give me the opportunity to continue giving back while studying what I love.”
For Mertes, the scholarship is a reminder of his church family that has been an integral part of his journey. “I am so grateful and humbled,” he says. “This scholarship helps me fulfill my dream of attending college, and I look forward to continuing to grow my faith within the Methodist Church throughout college and beyond.”
Yet, as much as he loves sports and numbers, Mertes can’t ignore the realities of inequality in society.
“With this love of sports and numbers, the heartbreaking reality of our nation’s disparity of wealth is painfully obvious,” he shares. His favorite quote by John F. Kennedy — “to whom much is given, much is required” — has always resonated, guiding his commitment to giving back.
Mertes’ passion for service is deeply rooted in his experiences growing up in Tennessee. Through his involvement with the Appalachia Service Project and his church youth group, community service has taught him to appreciate life’s small comforts, like a warm blanket or a hot shower.
“Working with my church and the ASP has opened my eyes to the disparity of wealth in our country. But it’s also helped me realize how important it is to give back and make a difference.”
GBHEM Scholarship Program
GBHEM Scholarships offer financial aid to United Methodist students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. Every year, an average of $4 million is awarded to help students in the United States and abroad pursue their dreams through higher education. With this financial aid, GBHEM is opening pathways for students of all backgrounds to earn their degrees and serve as the next generation of leaders for the church and the world. Learn more.
Related Posts
MARSHALL, Texas — The United Methodist Church’s Black College Fund has made an “indelible footprint” on Wiley University, providing steadfast support that President Dr. Herman Felton Jr. says continues to drive student success, modernize the 151‑year‑old campus, and strengthen the institution’s long‑term stability.
Twenty years ago, a mentor saw me starting to burn out. He encouraged me to take a personal retreat. This was both renewal and challenge – could I let myself BE for just a couple of days? A part of the plan was to go to Olympic National Park, just to walk in the meadows. With no hat, no food, no extra water, and Birkenstocks on my feet, I headed into the mountains.
For the Rev. Dr. Sharad Creasman, hope shows up every day at Brevard College, often in the smallest, most human moments. “I am inspired by students’ giggles, laughter, smiles, vocational interests, questions about life, and everything in between, and their dreams about their futures."
