Keep Evolving, Please
Giving back to the next generation of artists
Congratulations - 2022 Scholarship Winner Darwin Rojas
"I have stayed true to the dream I have had since I was in 5th grade."
The entire SMMS committee was taken with Darwin's positivity, playfulness, and passion. Throughout the selection process, we came to realize that this talented young man was truly special. Darwin embodies the talent, character, and love for theatre that continues the legacy of Sam Mossler.
Congratulations Darwin, we know you will go far - Keep Evolving, Please
Creating a legacy
about the scholarship
Our Mission
The Scholarship
The Scholarship
Sam had a dream that one day a scholarship would be named in his honor.
We strive to posthumously make that dream a reality, by supporting a young artist in their dream of a life in the arts.
Click below to learn more about our mission in an interview with Suncoast News.
The Scholarship
The Scholarship
The Scholarship
Sam Mossler Memorial Scholarship Fund is established to award an annual $5,000 scholarship to a graduating senior student from Booker High School Visual & Performing Arts Program who will be pursuing a postsecondary education in the arts.
The recipient of this scholarship will embody the talent, character, and passion for the arts that continues the legacy of Sam Mossler.
Our Committee
The Scholarship
Our Committee
Comprised of actors, artists, friends, and family who were all touched by Sam's amazing ability to connect with each of us on a personal level and even an audience he never met.
Mickey Mossler - Brother
Nicole Hancock - Life Partner
Adam Ratner - Friend
Laurie Miller - Friend
Bobby Mitchell - Friend
Rebecca Abrahamson - Friend
Jay Duval & David DeWald - Co-Founders
Scholarship - FAQs
Why - Keep Evolving, Please?
It was a song he wrote, containing poignant lyrics to live-by. You could call it Sam's "Mantra".
Who is Eligible?
Graduating seniors from Booker High School's Visual and Performing Arts Program who will be pursuing a postsecondary education in the arts.
What is the Application Process?
An application and essay or writing sample must be submitted by March of the senior's graduating year and will be a prerequisite for scheduling the audition and interview.
Each eligible candidate will audition and interview with the scholarship committee (virtually for now) in Spring of their graduating year.
- The audition will consist of two contrasting visual or performing arts pieces of the candidates choosing, a song may be included if desired, but is not required. Audition must be no more than 5 minutes in length.
- The interview will be a half-hour long and will consist of questions from the committee.
Who Determines the Award?
The award is determined annually by the Sam Mossler Memorial Scholarship Committee.
The committee is comprised of the friends and family of Sam Mossler.
When is the Award Presented?
The award will be presented annually in the Spring of the senior's graduating year.