For loyal involvement over the past four years with Grand Rapids Right to Life, Isaac Morley, a homeschooled senior, was awarded the 2026 DJ Zarnosky Life Leadership Award.
Morley received a $1,000 scholarship for exhibiting a firm commitment to the pro-life movement.
During his high school years, Morley helped with set-up and as an usher for several Focus on Life Benefit Dinners. He tirelessly worked on Pedals & Petals and even helped organize the Holiday Auction room, with more than 700 items to sift through.
A personal experience helped form his deeply held pro-life convictions.
“When my mom was eight weeks pregnant with me, she was told it was not a viable pregnancy and that she should take the abortion pill and just try again the next month. She refused, and I’m so glad she did,” Morley wrote on his scholarship application form. “Now, I’m ready to follow the Lord wherever he leads me and to share how much he loves us, including his love for the unborn and for all people from birth to natural death.”
Morley will spend the year after graduation working full-time in the construction industry while he discerns God’s will for his life.
This award is named to honor the memory of Dennis Joseph Zarnosky, who died in a tragic car accident in 2000. DJ was only 16 when he died; however, he was always a passionate supporter of life and was determined to make a difference in the world.
Steve and Sandy Zarnosky, DJ’s parents, were blessed by his life and they continue to be enriched and encouraged by memories of his spirit and by the young award recipients who are carrying on his legacy of commitment to pro-life ministry.