The West Scholarship was established in 1983. Merle and Emma West believed that every person should have the opportunity for education beyond the high school level. They provided a perpetual source of funds to help graduates of high schools in Klamath County, Oregon, who have demonstrated good citizenship, scholastic achievement and the ability and desire to help themselves through college education or vocational training.

Merle and Emma West had no children of their own, but their legacy continues through the benefits of the educational opportunities they have provided to Klamath County residents.