Beryle Christesen Scholarship

This scholarship was made possible and donated by Gloria and Leng Wong in loving memory of their godmother, Beryle M. Christesen 

Beryle M. Christesen was the only child of Anna Goebel and Ferdinand Christesen. She was born on August 3, 1915, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Her father was of Danish descent and her mother of German descent. Beryle graduated from Central High School in Minneapolis and went on to the University of Minnesota for both her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s of Education. She taught art for 32 years in Edina, Minnesota.

Beryle was an active member of the Art Educators of Minnesota and served two terms as the group’s president. In 1982, she won a National Art Education Association State award. She also belonged to the Minneapolis Women’s Club, and she was an avid volunteer for Mount Olive Lutheran Church.

Beryle met several Hmong families through the Mount Olive Lutheran Church and connected with the family of Nou Houa Yang. Although she never married nor had biological children of her own, Beryle became the godmother to the four youngest children, Gloria, Liliane, Mike, and the late Emai. She helped raise them as though they were her own children. She was a loving, caring, and supportive godmother, mentor, and friend. She used to help the children with their homework, provide them with homemade meals, took them to cultural and performing arts events and their medical appointments, and attended their parent-teacher conferences. The kids always looked forward to Christmas and birthdays with her because she made the occasions so special.

Beryle became especially close to Gloria, whom she encouraged to work hard at her education and attend college. After graduating from high school, and because of her godmother’s tireless efforts, Gloria went to Mankato State University.

On March 19, 1999, Beryle passed away, but her imprint on the lives of those around her will remain forever. Because of her godmother’s love and support, Gloria is today a wife, mother, and business owner. This memorial scholarship was donated by Gloria and Leng Wong.

This scholarship is presented by the Hmong American Education Fund.  The scholarship seeks to financially support one student in the pursuit of his or her educational goals.  The successful applicant will be awarded up to $1000.00 to the choice of a college or university.