The John Brand Memorial Fund was established in 2005 in memory of former Sturgis mayor, John E. Brand, by his family. The original purpose of the Fund was to assist students in programs centered on career development, internships, mentoring, and workshops related to government and politics, debate, and leadership. In 2010, in an effort to assist more students annually, the Fund was amended to provide scholarship awards. The Brand Fund awards scholarships for graduates of Sturgis HS attending a 2 or 4-year college or university. All applicants, regardless of need, are considered.