Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire has introduced a new scholarship, the Chancellor’s Spotlight Award, recognizing first-year students for their achievements. The awards are based on faculty nominations and aim to highlight student improvement, leadership, and resilience in overcoming challenges.

Billy Felz, vice chancellor for enrollment management, expressed pride in acknowledging these students' accomplishments. “We know that the first year of college can be challenging, and it’s wonderful that we are able to recognize students who were identified by a professor as being successful,” Felz stated. He added that success isn't solely about grades but includes showing progress over time and demonstrating leadership.

Felz credited partnerships with Academic Affairs and the Foundation for making this initiative possible. “We are very thankful to have great partnerships in Academic Affairs and the Foundation to establish the new award and recognition ceremony,” he said. He acknowledged the generosity of Dan and Martha Wenzel for funding all 28 scholarships.

Julia Diggins, vice president of the UWEC Foundation, praised Blugold donors for supporting student persistence through this fund. “The recipients of the Chancellor’s Spotlight Award have shown remarkable determination in overcoming challenges,” Diggins said.

Shannon Collins, a clinical professor at UW-Eau Claire, emphasized how important it is for faculty to acknowledge student growth. “Transitioning to college is a mix of excitement and challenge that requires navigating a new living environment,” Collins remarked.

Scholarship recipient Teigan Petersilka expressed gratitude for receiving this award during her pre-nursing studies at UW-Eau Claire. “I am very honored to be a recipient of such a thoughtful award,” she commented.

Chancellor James Schmidt reflected on the diverse strengths highlighted in faculty nominations during an inaugural reception. “For some students, faculty highlighted the incredible strength and maturity shown as they balanced deeply personal tragedies over their first semester,” Schmidt noted.

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