March 17, 2010 - The Alaska Community Foundation staff noted with sadness the passing of Dr. Merritt Olson, who created the Dr. Merritt Olson Academic Scholarship Fund at Alaska Community Foundation. Dr. Olson was a supporter of youth and education and cared deeply about the students of West High. His legacy will live on through scholarships to West High seniors for decades to come.

"Dr. Olson had an amazing life in Alaska and he exemplified the traits of a genuine philanthropist, endowing in perpetuity the causes he cared about, especially the cause of higher education. He really is an example to us all," said Suzanne Yack, acting executive director.