The Elizabeth Mara Johnson Memorial Scholarship was started in 2025 by Mr. Gary and Mrs. Sandra (nee Wilkes) Johnson DMLC ’75 in loving memory of their daughter Elizabeth (1986-2020).
Liz graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran High School in 2004. As a very independent person, her parents say, she did not want to follow in her mom’s footsteps and become a WELS teacher, despite their encouragement. Having talent in music and the dramatic arts, she went to the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay to pursue studies in those subjects. Having a love of children, she became a nanny for a family with five children on the East Coast. Wanting travel and adventure, she became a flight attendant. These were all somewhat short-lived choices.
The Holy Spirit then went to work and opened her eyes to the fact that her talents and wishes could be accomplished by becoming a Lutheran school teacher.
Liz enrolled at MLC and graduated in December 2010. She was assigned to teach at Lord of Life in Friendswood, Texas. She also had the privilege and joy of teaching children at Christ the King in Palm Coast, Florida, and St. Matthew in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin.
After a fight with cancer, in 2020 Elizabeth went home to heaven. Afterwards, her parents explain, several former students of hers shared that she was a big influence in their desire to become a teacher or that she was able to help them with their studies in some special way. Hearing that she was a blessing to others brought her parents great joy.
By God’s grace, the Johnsons are now able to offer financial help to others. They pray that this too will be a blessing to those wishing to join the teaching ministry.
Elizabeth Mara Johnson Memorial Scholarship recipients are education majors with financial need who demonstrate a commitment to the public ministry by being in good standing. Preference is given to second-career and nontraditional students.
