Jonah Jeremiah Lavata’i Memorial Scholarship

Donor: Pete, Elsie, & Sally Thompson

Jonah was a defensive lineman during the 2012-2013 season, and a Mountie at heart. He was also a member of the Arise Program. This scholarship was established in memory of our beloved nephew Jonah, whose light was dimmed way too soon at the age of 32 on July 20, 2022. It shall benefit a member of the Arise Program, including, but not limited to, a student-athlete to whom music is an important part of life. Jonah had an ear for music and was a naturally gifted musician. He grew up singing in church at a very young age, started playing the ukulele at 10 years old and the guitar shortly thereafter. Jonah was a humble, respectful, intelligent, and easy-going gentle giant who was steadfast in his faith in God and his loyalty to family and friends. He cut an imposing figure (literally and figuratively) and touched the lives of many in positive and impactful ways. Our wish, in Jonah’s memory, is to impact the life of a fellow Arise student-athlete.