The Missy L. Olson Scholarships

Atticus Family Law, S. C. strongly believes that people in family law transitions, such as divorces and custody cases, need passionate and invested non-legal professionals to call upon during each step of their transitions. After the short-term family law needs are met, there are long-term needs for therapists, financial planners, accountants, lenders, real estate agents, social works, and so many others. Our Firm recognizes that our client’s success stems, not only, from legal victories, but is also deeply rooted in the interactions our client’s have with non-legal professionals. To support students who are interested in these vocations and create greater awareness of these rewarding professions, Atticus Family Law, S. C. is honored and excited to offer the Missy L. Olson Scholarship.

In 2022, the scholarships issued by Atticus Family Law, S. C. were renamed in honor of Missy Olson, who passed away in December of 2021. For 15 years, Missy worked as an Executive Assistant. She passionately worked with our clients and collaborated with our staff. She particularly found a great joy and satisfaction in seeing our clients thrive as a result of legal services, but also from the support of the non-legal professionals our clients encountered. The staff at Atticus Family Law, S. C. can think of no better way to honor her memory and unwavering dedication to our clients and staff than through the Missy L. Olson Scholarship.

The Missy L. Olson Scholarship will be awarded based on merit to two students each year. The students will be chosen from two of the areas in which Atticus Family Law, S. C. has offices. One student will be chosen from the Twin Cities area, being the communities in and near Ramsey, Hennepin, Washington, Anoka, Sherburne, Carver, Scott, and Dakota counties. The other student will be chosen from Northeastern MN, and the Iron Range as well as the other communities in and near Saint Louis, Lake, and Carlton counties.

2024 Scholarship Winners

Congratulations to Knoel Pha, Winner of the $1,000 Missy L. Olson Scholarship!

We are thrilled to announce that Knoel Pha, a high school senior with a passion for computer science, has been awarded the prestigious $1,000 Missy L. Olson Scholarship. Knoel’s insightful essay on how technology can enhance family law services stood out among the many submissions. His innovative ideas and dedication to integrating technology in legal services exemplify the spirit of this scholarship.

Knoel Pha

Knoel Pha is a high school senior with a keen interest in computer science. He plans to pursue his studies in this field and is particularly passionate about developing technological solutions to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of family law services. In his award-winning essay, Knoel outlined how software systems, predictive analytics, secure client portals, and cybersecurity can transform the practice of family law. His innovative approach and commitment to using technology for social good make him a deserving recipient of the Missy L. Olson Scholarship.

“Receiving this scholarship means a lot to me and will greatly help with my studies. I am excited about starting college life at the University of Minnesota, meeting new people, and studying computer science to explore how technology can improve people’s daily life. Outside of academics, I enjoy soccer, volleyball, nature and am proud to be an Eagle Scout. I also work part-time as a certified American Red Cross Lifeguard. As for hobbies, I like to collect Hot Wheels and Legos.”

Congratulations to Harish Premsai, Winner of the $1,000 Missy L. Olson Scholarship!

We are delighted to announce that Harish Premsai, a high school senior with aspirations in aerospace engineering, has been awarded the $1,000 Missy L. Olson Scholarship. Harish’s essay on the interdisciplinary contributions of aerospace engineering to family law impressed the scholarship committee with its unique perspective and innovative solutions.

Harish Premsai

Harish Premsai is a high school senior who plans to study aerospace engineering at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. In his scholarship-winning essay, Harish highlighted how professionals from his future field can support family law cases through evaluating travel logistics, analyzing high-value assets, and providing cybersecurity measures. His interdisciplinary approach demonstrates a commitment to leveraging engineering skills to enhance legal services and support clients effectively. Harish’s visionary ideas and dedication to making a difference in family law make him a worthy recipient of the Missy L. Olson Scholarship.

“I am most looking forward to being in an academically challenging environment in a field that I am passionate about as I start school this fall. One academic goal I have is to graduate with Latin Honors through the University Honors Program at the University of Minnesota. In the course of my career, I hope to contribute to deepening humanity’s understanding of the cosmos through designing spacecraft and supporting space exploration. My hobbies and interests include playing video games, working out, and hanging out with friends.”