When Tio graduated from high school in Selkirk, receiving the Dr. Dale Iwanoczko Memorial Scholarship inspired him to one day help another student in the same way. After earning his Doctor of Optometry degree in 2008 and beginning his career in Morden, he established a scholarship recognizing excellence in science for a local graduate.
For years, Tio funded the scholarship himself. After marrying Leanne Nause, they continued the award together, sharing a passion for supporting students and encouraging academic achievement.
After learning about the long-term impact of endowments, Dr. Tio and Dr. Leanne created the Tio & Leanne Bellisario Excellence in Science Scholarship Fund through the Morden Area Foundation. Their gift ensures the scholarship will continue to support deserving graduates for years to come.
Tio and Leanne are grateful to the Foundation for helping make their vision a lasting legacy.
The fund provides an annual scholarship to a student from Morden, Manitoba who is pursuing studies at an accredited post-secondary or professional institution who is pursuing studies in SCIENCE.
The recipient shall be determined on an annual basis through the Morden Collegiate Institute. He/She must have the highest percentage average in all sciences combined (Chemistry, Biology and Physics).
- 2026 Ky-Lynn Jenner