Scholarship

2025 Jon Renaud Scholarship Recipient: Mason Tallo

Mason Tallo, a standout student-athlete and servant leader, is the 2025 recipient of the Jon Renaud Scholarship. A homeschool graduate, Mason will attend Liberty University in the fall to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Music and Worship with a focus in Pastoral Leadership.

Mason’s heart for service and his steady commitment to his faith are evident in everything he does. Whether leading worship at 2Rivers Church, mentoring peers, or volunteering in the community, Mason strives daily to live out the calling of Christ—even knowing that perfection isn’t possible. As he put it in his scholarship essay, “Though it is clear throughout Scripture that no one is perfect and we cannot truly become like Jesus, I try to do my best to live up to that calling daily.”

His deep passion for musical worship is more than a talent—it’s a personal mission. He describes it as “giving God His breath back,” and it’s something he never tires of. Mason leads worship both in youth group and on the main church stage and has also taken on leadership roles through hosting a weekly Bible study at his home and volunteering as a camp counselor.

On the court, Mason was known for his leadership, humility, and integrity. He played with purpose, encouraging teammates and choosing sportsmanship over recognition. Off the court, he has served with organizations including Strong Tower Ranch, the Dream Center in Los Angeles, Denver Rescue Mission, Hands and Feet of Jesus, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and his church’s Kids Ministry.

In his essay, Mason also reflected with honesty about his personal walk with God, acknowledging the temptation to rely on his own strength and the importance of staying rooted in time alone with Christ. As he enters this next season of life, he is committed to deepening his foundation in faith so that “God’s goodness to me in my personal life overflows in my public life.”

Mason credits much of his spiritual development to his father, a pastor and role model who daily lives out what it means to follow Christ with truth, love, and grace. That example has shaped Mason’s vision for his future and affirmed his desire to pursue ministry full-time.

Mason Tallo is more than a high-achieving student or talented worship leader—he is a young man committed to living for Christ and leading others to do the same. We are honored to name him this year’s Jon Renaud Scholarship recipient.

2025 Jon Renaud Memorial Scholarship

Application now CLOSED - 2025 Application due date: Tuesday, April 15, 2025

 

This scholarship is in honor of Jon Renaud. On April 21, 2018, Jon un-expectedly passed, leaving behind a legacy to live on through those who loved him. Jon was a devoted husband, father, brother, son and friend.

 

Jon was an extraordinary individual. He lived his life serving God and others. Jon was passionate about his family, music, sports, living out his faith in Jesus and living his life to the fullest. He had a heart for mentoring others whether at work, church or within his own family and friends. Jon had a propensity for living in the moment and never passing up an opportunity for an adventure.

 

Jon embodied the life of a servant and emulated God by living out

• Colossians 3:12-17 “A heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience…put on love which is the perfect bond of unity…whatever you do, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks…
• Matthew 5:16 “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

 

The mission of the Jon Renaud Memorial Scholarship is to recognize and provide financial assistance of $2,000.00 to a first year Freshman student. 

The desired applicant should display similar character, faith, and life qualities as Jon did. 

APPLICANT CRITERIA 

• Applicant must be a first time Freshman student for the 2024-2025 school year
• Applicant must hold a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Applicant must be enrolled as a full time student at a 2 or 4 year College or University for the 2024-2025 academic year

 

APPLICATION PROCESS

• Must complete the application form below. 
• Must provide an unofficial High School transcript.
• Must provide proof of acceptance letter or full-time enrollment at a 2 year or 4 year College or University.
• Must submit an essay. 
• Must provide a minimum of 2 character references.   
• Must submit application and all required material by 11:59 PM, CST on Monday, April 1, 2024.
• Before funds are distributed, The Scholarship recipient must provide proof of full-time enrollment at a 2 year or 4 year College or University by September 1, 2024. 

TIMELINE

You can expect to be notified (by phone or email) by May 1, 2024 to hear if you have been awarded the scholarship. 

The deadline for this application to be received is Tuesday, April 15, 2025

 

Email any questions or supporting documents to:

[email protected]