Lori Larson and David Yesnes remember their son Morgan as a vibrant and generous person who loved to connect with others. Morgan valued deepening his knowledge. While studying at 绿茶直播, Morgan discovered his affinity for history. He quickly developed an incredible passion for World War II. 鈥淭here was an event we were at where Morgan talked some guy鈥檚 ears off for over an hour about history!鈥� his sister Sydney remembered with amusement. Morgan faced daunting challenges with his health, however he didn鈥檛 let this stop him from living life to its fullest potential. Because of the experience Morgan had at Augsburg, creating the Morgan A. Yesnes Endowed History Scholarship in his memory was an easy decision for David and Lori to make. The family established their endowed scholarship in celebration of the joyous and resilient nature in which Morgan lived his life and in appreciation for 绿茶直播鈥檚 commitment to serve all students, especially those who need financial and specialized learning support in housing and learning for an equitable education. Due to Morgan鈥檚 physical limitations, the family had to be selective about where Morgan could attend college. 鈥淲e had to choose a school that allowed for ease of mobility between buildings,鈥� Lori recalled. Augsburg was one of the few campuses in Minnesota that had skyways and wasn鈥檛 overwhelmingly big. 鈥淚t was also a great location because it was close enough to home but far enough for him to have independence,鈥� David added. They knew Augsburg was the right fit when they saw Morgan鈥檚 face immediately light up when he first arrived on campus.
One aspect about Augsburg Morgan鈥檚 family remembers with gratitude is the supportive environment Morgan experienced. 鈥淭he people in the CLASS center were so helpful when Morgan was in school. The accommodations he received helped him be independent鈥� the last thing he wanted was to feel different,鈥� Lori shared. This support, along with Morgan鈥檚 outgoing and caring nature, made it easy for him to find his place. He made friends by attending game nights in the student lounges, going to the occasional football game, and connecting with people in his classes.聽
Morgan passed away on April 22, 2020 at the age of 24. Lori, David, and Sydney strive to live their lives in a way that honors Morgan and carries on his legacy of wanting to make a positive impact in people鈥檚 lives. When reflecting on what they hope their scholarship accomplishes, David shares, 鈥淚 want to give kids the opportunity to go to school, who might not otherwise have the chance due to financial barriers.鈥� 鈥淲e also want to give students a chance to grow and broaden their knowledge in a educational environment鈥� Really have that college experience and be part of a community,鈥� Lori said. The Larson Yesnes family believes that challenges and disadvantages should not prevent a bright future.
There is comfort and healing knowing that their gift is bigger than their family. The students who receive this scholarship will be connected to Morgan in a special way. The important lessons of resilience David, Lori, and Sydney learned through Morgan are something they hope they can pass onto future generations. 鈥淎lways live life to the fullest and never put limits on yourself and your dreams.鈥� Morgan鈥檚 enthusiasm delighted his teachers and inspired his peers. He lived a full, rich, and compassionate life.