Chippewa Valley Times

Two hundred students at the University of Wisconsin-Stout recently benefited from nearly $1 million in grants provided by the Fund for Wisconsin Scholars (FWSS) nonprofit foundation. These grants were acknowledged at a reception held on April 8, where recipients from various Universities of Wisconsin gathered at UW-Stout. Each student receives $2,500 per semester for up to eight to ten semesters.

Given the annual tuition of approximately $11,000 for in-state students at UW-Stout, this scholarship covers nearly half of the tuition costs. FWSS recipient Lilly Gamache, who also serves as a peer mentor, believes the scholarship enables her to "excel in and outside of the classroom," reducing the financial burden that can hinder academic success.

FWSS aims to enhance the number of college graduates in Wisconsin by making higher education more accessible and affordable. The program, founded in 2007 by John and Tashia Morgridge, awards grants to selected students attending four-year colleges in Wisconsin. The Morgridges express their vision: "Many students come from families unfamiliar with the demands of college...a college education will enhance their lives and give them greater lifelong options and opportunities."

Simon Brown, an FWSS alum and office manager at UW-Stout’s Advisement Center, describes the program as "transformative." He attributes his ability to afford school and enjoy the college experience without the burden of tuition costs to the program.

The FWSS program also incorporates a peer mentor initiative on UW campuses, where junior and senior recipients guide new scholars. Gamache finds fulfillment in mentoring, noting the program provides a strong community and encourages students to achieve their best.

Jamie Arenz, a UW-Stout academic advisor, supervises the peer mentor program. "I am amazed by what this program does and how it helps students. Students are able to focus on their academics and not worry about money," Arenz remarked.

FWSS is open to all students who meet the program requirements, with funding distributed through the financial aid offices to students selected from Pell Grant recipients who graduated from Wisconsin public high schools.

UW-Stout stands out for its focus on affordability and student outcomes, earning recognition from Money Magazine as one of the 2024 Best Colleges in Wisconsin. The campus offers additional resources such as the Financial Wellness & Literacy Center and foundation scholarships.