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The Michelle “Misha” Buzlea Memorial Scholarship was established by the Buzlea family to honor the memory of their daughter, Misha, a 91Ӱ�� Veterinary Technology student who passed away in January 2025. The scholarship supports future Vet Tech students who show determination, compassion, and a commitment to animal care—qualities that defined Misha’s life and work.

A 91Ӱ�� student, who passed away in January 2025, was awarded a posthumous degree recognizing her dedication, compassion, and perseverance. Michelle “Misha” Buzlea was on track to graduate from 91Ӱ��’s Veterinary Technology program in May before she passed away at 29 years old after a long battle with end-stage renal disease.

To carry her legacy forward, Misha’s family has established the through the 91Ӱ�� Foundation. The $1,000 annual scholarship will support future Veterinary Technology students at 91Ӱ��, ensuring Misha’s passion for animals and veterinary care lives on through the work of others.

The Buzlea family says the scholarship is a way to honor her enduring spirit and to support students who may be facing their own challenges while pursuing their goals.

“We want students to take advantage of this because we know how hard she worked to get where she was,” says Misha’s mother, Rochelle Buzlea. “Ideally, the student who receives this scholarship would demonstrate tenacity or determination to overcome adversity to help animals.”

Misha was diagnosed with end-stage renal disease at age 14 and underwent years of dialysis and treatment following a failed kidney transplant at 16. Despite ongoing health complications, she graduated from high school with honors and later enrolled in 91Ӱ��’s Veterinary Technology program.

“She would want people to know that those going through medical struggles are just as important as anyone else. She would want to be remembered for not giving up,” says Rochelle.

“She was so thankful to be a part of the program, and she couldn't wait to take her boards and become a full registered veterinary technician,” says Misha’s father, David Buzlea. “She always wanted to go on to become a doctor of veterinary medicine.”

Her parents say Misha’s love for animals began in early childhood and shaped every part of her life. She had a natural ability to calm animals and thrived in clinical settings, where placing IVC catheters as an anesthetist became one of her favorite responsibilities.

“Misha demonstrated grit, defined as a striving determination. She established her goals and worked diligently to achieve them,” says 91Ӱ�� Veterinary Technology Program Director Jan Barnett, DVM. “She found the energy to continue forward, with the mindset of continual improvement and lifelong learning. Misha continues to serve as an inspiration for us all.”

“We were deeply saddened by the loss of Misha, whose love for animals was truly inspiring. She never let her illness define her—always stepping up, ready to help, and driven by a fierce desire to learn,” says Assistant Professor Paula Millican. “I’ll never forget the joy and pride she felt after completing her first dental procedure for a dog. She had the biggest smile on her face. Misha’s strength, passion, and dedication will always be remembered.”

In addition to her academic achievements, Misha worked at several local veterinary clinics and cared for hundreds of animals. She was a proud pet parent to two dogs, two cats, and a rabbit. She was also an avid reader and a lifelong Taylor Swift fan who was thrilled to attend one of the singer’s concerts.

“Misha never wanted to be defined by her illness,” says Rochelle. “She just kept going. And we want her story to keep going, too.”

Applications for the are open now and close Aug. 4.