The Rollie and Mary Mercer Endowed Scholarship was established in 2018 by Mary Mercer in memory of her husband Rollie. The endowment supports a student-athlete in the Illinois State football program. Preference is given to an offensive player who demonstrates a team-first attitude.
Tanner Taula ’20, a recipient of the scholarship, plans to begin a master’s degree program in sports psychology this fall while continuing to play football for the Redbirds. “Receiving the scholarship meant a lot to me because it shows thoughtfulness and appreciation of the work I’ve done to try to better myself and try to reach my aspirations,” he said.
Taula is passionate about football and hopes to play professionally one day.
“Thank you, Mrs. Mercer, for your efforts, appreciation, and support of myself and my teammates,” Taula said. “It’s meaningful to have people outside of your direct circle showing encouragement and support. You have shown us what it means to be a Redbird for life.”
