In 2025, Chris Schatz, dean of health and human services at Moraine Park, turned remembrance into impact by establishing the Dean L. Schatz Memorial Scholarship, honoring the values of service and generosity his father lived by.
The scholarship honors Schatz’s father, Dean Schatz, a Vietnam veteran who passed away in 2007 at the age of 54 after battling a brain tumor. Known for his deep commitment to service, Dean Schatz was actively involved in his community, volunteering his time through youth sports, scouting programs and the American Legion.
“My dad was always giving of his time,” Schatz said. “He taught me to do what I could with what I had and to always try to give back and pay it forward.”
Schatz’s own path to leadership was not traditional. After spending more than a decade in the workforce, he returned to Moraine Park, graduating in 2011 from the Criminal Justice program. He began working in the field while continuing his education, earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Marian University, a master’s degree in organizational leadership and quality, and later a doctorate from Edgewood College. Today, as dean of health and human services, Schatz draws on those experiences to support students navigating their own educational journeys.
As Moraine Park’s dean of health and human services—and an alum himself—Schatz saw an opportunity to extend his father’s legacy in a meaningful way by supporting students who may need an extra hand to continue their education.
The Dean L. Schatz Memorial Scholarship is available to Moraine Park students who live in Washington County. While community involvement is encouraged, the scholarship focuses on supporting students with financial need.
“Given my position here at the College, this felt like the right way to make an impact,” Schatz said. He hopes the scholarship recipient feels encouraged knowing someone believes in their future and wants to support their goals.
Schatz said the motivation behind the scholarship is deeply personal. “I came back to Moraine Park after failing out of college 12 years prior, and I assumed no one would want to invest in me, so being able to invest in students now means a lot,” he said. “My dad always believed in me, and I hope this scholarship helps a student feel that same sense of belief.”
Through the Dean L. Schatz Memorial Scholarship, Schatz hopes to honor his father’s lifelong commitment to service while helping Moraine Park students move closer to their goals.
Celebrating 50 Years of the Foundation
As the Moraine Park Foundation celebrates 50 years, it honors a legacy built on generosity and purpose. For five decades, donors have helped remove barriers, open doors and empower students to pursue hands-on education and meaningful careers. Your Generosity. Our Mission. Empowering Students for 50 Years.