Help us remember Sam Vlahos and his hard work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit for generations to come.

The purpose of the fund is to provide funding annually to Morton High School to grant the Samson Vlahos Memorial Entrepreneur/Hardworker Scholarship to a graduating senior. This scholarship will assist the student(s) pursuing a career in the skilled trades or related fields, such as technical education, engineering, or other professions that support or align with trade industries.

Sam was a 2022 graduate of Morton High School and a senior at Bradley University majoring in construction management. He and Savannah were set to graduate a year early together in May of 2025. They were planning to continue their journey through life together starting with their July 25, 2025 wedding.

He was co-owner of Vlahos Bros LLC with his brother and best friend, Max. They made the best team with Max being known as the dreamer and Sam as the one who made sure those dreams became a reality. Sam was not just a leader, but the heart and soul of the business. His dedication, vision and passion for excellence shaped the company and left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew him. Sam’s legacy will live on in his work and the countless lives he has touched. He was a humble man that never boasted about his many achievements.

He also worked at UCM and was recently offered a full-time position that he was ready to accept.

His love of boulders not only led to a collection, but also his love of the construction field. Sam loved to be outside and was not afraid to get dirty.

His never-ending patience in teaching and helping others, led to including not just his brother, but all he considered to be family in his business, as they were welcomed with open arms to lend a helping hand. Sam especially treasured his time spent on the job with his "little brother," Jacob, and his "little helper," Riley, as well as the support of his many family members.

He lived his life to the fullest and never had any regrets. Sam always did everything he wanted to do. He loved his family and friends with all of his heart. They were everything to him. To Sam, it didn’t matter how much time passed between gatherings, he always picked right up with his many friends. Once a friend, you were always a friend of his as he made time for everyone in his life.

According to Sam, there were never enough hours in the day to accomplish what he set out to do. He was known to say, “If only there were a few more hours” and “I’ll be there shortly.” Sam’s positive outlook on life was repeated often through his phrase, “It will all work out.” Something Savannah heard often while planning their wedding.

Eligibility

• Must be a graduating high school senior from Morton High School
• Must be a student planning to enroll full-time at an accredited trade school, college, or university.
• Student must have earned a minimum of a 2.5 GPA throughout their high school years.
• Demonstrates a strong work ethic through part-time employment, volunteer activities, or other responsibilities outside of school.
• Students must be pursuing careers in the skilled trades or related fields, such as technical education, engineering, or other professions that support or align with trade industries.
• Students must submit 3 letters of recommendation.
• In a 500-word essay or a video, students should demonstrate their hard work ethic or entrepreneurial spirit. They should explain how they stand out, why they are qualified for the scholarship, and the specific course of study the scholarship will support.

HOW TO APPLY:

Morton High School students who feel they may qualify for this scholarship can pick up an application in the Morton High School counseling office beginning in mid-February each year. Applications must be filled out and submitted to the counseling office in mid-March. You may inquire in the counseling office for specific pickup dates and deadlines each year.