Champion of Determination: Cole Marsh Awardee of Northern Michigan University’s Harden Scholarship

Cole Marsh, native of Grayling, Michigan and a student-athlete at Kirtland Community College, has been awarded the prestigious Harden Scholarship to Northern Michigan University (NMU)—a full-ride scholarship representing one of the highest honors for incoming students. Marsh’s achievements in academics and athletics have made him a standout, earning him recognition and the opportunity to pursue his bachelor’s degree without financial burden.

Marsh’s path to this scholarship was built on his accomplishments at Kirtland. Majoring in three associate degrees—Business Administration, Accounting, and Arts and Sciences—Marsh maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA, a feat that has landed him a spot on the President’s Honor Roll throughout his tenure at Kirtland.

“Kirtland has helped me accomplish not only my academic goals but also my athletic goals,” said Marsh. “I could not have done this without the help from the staff at Kirtland and all of my coaches.”

Marsh balanced his academic demands with an extensive athletic career, competing for Kirtland in cross-country, bowling, and golf. Marsh’s contributions helped lead Kirtland’s Cross-Country Team to a Northern Conference Championship, and his personal accolades include being named a First Team National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Academic All-American and receiving Academic All-Conference Honors as well.

“Cole has been a very solid runner on the Firebird Cross-Country team the past two years. He has been in our scoring 5 at every meet throughout his career,” said Don Haskin, Kirtland’s Head Cross-Country Coach. “Cole was especially strong this season and without him, we would have not been able to win our Home Invitational this Fall or our Northern Conference Championship-the school’s first ever Conference Title.  Cole’s positive attitude and leadership skills will be missed as he moves on to Northern Michigan University.”

Marsh views the Harden Scholarship as a culmination of years of dedication and motivation.

“Being awarded a full ride shows me that all of my hard work for 13 years of school has paid off,” Marsh reflected. “All the studying and thousands of hours of work both academically and athletically have shown it’s worth. I can graduate with my bachelor’s degree with no debt.”

The scholarship also represents Marsh’s personal victory against doubt and adversity. “It shows that people who did not believe in me were wrong. I can sleep tonight knowing that winning and being the champion is the only way to live.”

The Harden Scholarship, one of NMU’s most prestigious awards, is a full-ride scholarship that includes tuition for full-time enrollment, most required fees, room and board, and other benefits. Recipients are also automatically admitted to NMU’s Honors Program, granting access to further academic opportunities.

This year, only 16 students earned the scholarship—15 for first-time freshmen and only one transfer student, like Marsh. Marsh will join an elite cohort of students recognized for their academic achievements, leadership, determination, and potential.

“As my student, Cole was creative, dedicated, and hardworking. He has taken advantage of every opportunity Kirtland has offered and represents us well not just as a student, but as a multi-sport athlete and student leader,” said Christine Bingle, Communications and Speech Instructor. “I’m not surprised he received the full ride from NMU; he’s the kind of student who sets a goal and dedicates everything he can to achieve it. I’m proud of Cole for all of his hard work and dedication, and I’m excited to see what his future holds!”

Marsh’s contributions extend beyond the classroom and sports fields. He has been deeply involved in campus and community activities, serving on Kirtland’s Event Center Committee and acting as a spokesperson for the Kirtland Foundation at events like Grayling Rotary Club meetings and on local radio.

Marsh is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa, an international honor society for 2-year colleges. His academic excellence and leadership earned him a suite of scholarships during his time at Kirtland, including the Blarney Stone Broadcasting Scholarship, the Grayling Regional Chamber of Commerce Scholarship, and several endowed scholarships such as the Command Sergeant Major Tike & Sally Golnick and Paul Harris-Grayling Rotary scholarships.

“I first met Cole during his first semester at Kirtland when he reached out with a question about a scholarship application. His initiative left a strong first impression, and over time I came to know him as a dedicated, hardworking, and fun-loving individual,” said Kirtland Foundation Assistant Director Alice Furstenau. “Balancing academics with playing three sports, Cole consistently excels, demonstrating strong time management and determination. His proactive approach, whether collaborating with instructors or engaging the community, ensures nothing is overlooked. Cole’s personable nature and goal-oriented mindset make him a remarkable young man poised for success.”

The Harden Scholarship has cleared Marsh’s path to pursue his bachelor’s degree at NMU without financial worries. Marsh is poised to make the most of this opportunity, carrying forward his passion for academics, athletics, and leadership. His story inspires those who face challenges in pursuit of their dreams.

“Kirtland and everyone there gave me the foundation to succeed,” Marsh said. “Now, NMU will allow me to continue striving for excellence.”

Marsh quickly expressed gratitude to those who helped him achieve this honor. “I couldn’t have done this without the help from the staff at Kirtland, my coaches, and my family, particularly my father who always gave up his time for my success,” he said. Their support, combined with his work ethic, made Marsh a shining example of how determination and resilience can lead to countless opportunities.

Upon completion of his Bachelors, Marsh plans to continue his higher educational career in pursuit of a Master’s in Business Administration. After accomplishing his educational goals, Marsh intends to take over management of his family’s fertilizer business.   

As Marsh embarks on his new journey, he is ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of being a Harden Scholar. His story reflects a deep commitment to personal growth and excellence, a testament to the transformative power of education and hard work.