University of Wisconsin Oshkosh

One of two recipients of the 2021-22 Gary McGoey Scholarship, Levi Battaglia expressed his heartfelt appreciation for his scholarship by explaining its impact.

“Living an eleven-person household, my parents cannot afford to pay for my college tuition, and my savings will only go so far, so this scholarship has greatly eased my financial concerns this semester and allowed me to save that money for semesters to come.

It was the proximity of the UWO Fox Cities and its partnership with UW Platteville school of engineering that appealed to Levi because he can earn his four-year engineering degree while saving money by living at home. 

“This scholarship has eased a financial burden for me and strengthened my drive to push myself to my highest capacity.  I cannot wait to see what my future holds. May the Lord bless you for your kindness and may this scholarship continue to bless many others in the future.”

Levi’s goal is to become a professional engineer with the goal of improving products to have more useful application in everyday life.  It’s a goal he identified early in life.

“Since I was a young boy, I have loved the rule-based nature of math and the inspiring variety found in science. Engineering intersects math and science in a fascinating mix of rules, knowledge, and brilliant creativity. “

The Gary McGoey Scholarship is awarded to a full time student attending UWO Fox Cities campus in any major demonstrating financial need.  It is a $1,250 scholarship.

Dylan Biechler is of three students receiving the 2021-22 Fox Cities Amateur Sports Authority Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to a full-time UWO Fox Cities campus student pursuing any major. Financial need is considered. The scholarship is a $2,000 award.

“My career goal is to be in an administrative role where I can lead people to do great work and enjoy their jobs,” said Dylan. So it seemed natural that Dylan’s pursuing a degree in Business Administration.

“I have always loved talking to people and I think I am very good with talking with people and being kind.”

Dylan’s scholarship has a significant impact for him because while he chose the UWO Fox Cities campus because it is close to home he’s responsible for paying his college tuition. 

“I’ve worked hard to save money, but this scholarship will help to buffer my financial situation. I’m not blessed with a wealthy family and I have to pay for my college. So this helps very much.”

A recipient of two scholarships, the Lynn and Roger Van Vreede Scholarship and the Elizabeth Guttenberg Memorial Scholarship, Kely Carrasquillo is a third semester returning student but attending face to face classes for the first time this fall due to the pandemic.  Kely’s major is Art Education.

“I have always enjoyed art and I had the opportunity to help provide art classes as a volunteer.  My goal is to work or own a studio where I can provide the community with opportunities to experience different art mediums.  I would like to provide a program where multi-generations can work together.”

Kely explained why receiving these scholarships were so meaningful to her. 

“My scholarships allow me the freedom to dedicate my time to my education and family.  They alleviate the economic stress so my focus can be where it should—in my commitment to myself through my education.” 

The Lynn and Roger Van Vreede Scholarship is awarded to a non-traditional full-time student attending the UWO Fox Cities campus pursuing any major.  Financial need is considered.  It is a $5050 scholarship.  The Elizabeth Guttenberg Memorial Scholarship is a $500 award presented to a full-time student attending the campus majoring in Art or Theatre.

Awarded to students who have demonstrated excellence in their grades with a minimum of of 3.5 GPA (grade point average) or other achievements, the 2021-22 Esther Klieforth Stutzman Excellence Scholarship is awarded to Maria Coenen.  The award is a $1,300 scholarship.

Maria is a graduate of the Shiocton School District.  Maria chose to attend UWO Fox Cities because of its affordability, location and the generosity of the community.

“Receiving scholarships personally impacts me because I know that my hard work and effort have paid off. The scholarship gives me a boost of confidence and allows me to notice that I can do more in life for myself and others.” 

“I would like to thank the donors who made my scholarship possible 100 times over.  You have given me a proud moment that I can take with me through my first year of college.  I greatly appreciate being chosen for this award.”

While Maria has yet to determine her major, she looks forward to meeting new people and trying a variety of new classes to help determine her future career.  Regardless of what that may be, Maria’s immediate college goal is to “find a passion for what I want to do in life.”

The Esther Kliefoth Stutzman Excellence Scholarship is one of many awarded to UWO Fox Cities campus students by the University of Wisconsin Fox Cities Foundation.  Through its scholarship program the foundation seeks to make a college education possible for students with financial need and/or to recognize their academic achievement.

With a passion for numbers and problem solving, Grant Geiger is a natural selection for the 2021-22 Veldor Kopitzke scholarship.  The scholarship honors Professor Emeritus of Economics, Veldor Kopitzke, who taught at the Fox campus for many years. The scholarship is awarded to a full time UWO Fox Cities campus student pursuing a degree in Economics or Business Administration who has a 3.0 GPA.  Financial need is considered.  The award is a $750 scholarship. 

Grant’s current career goal is to become a financial controller or manager where he can demonstrate his leadership skills in a financial setting and it begins with getting his college education underway.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know other people, expand my knowledge, adapt to new ways of learning, grow into my major, and attaining the broadest experience possible. 

Like many UWO Fox Cities campus students Grant chose the campus because it is affordable and because its credits transfer easily to other UW campuses.  Grant’s scholarship makes earning his college education even more possible.

“It makes a great financial impact for me as it will be an expensive journey for the next four years.  It reduces stress and worries about tuition as well as reducing the number of hours I need to work to pay for school.  That provides more time to study.”

Samantha Gerner, a Human Resource Manager major, is the recipient of the Joy and Jim Perry Scholarship.  This scholarship is new to the UWO Fox Cities campus in 2021-22 making Samantha its first recipient.  The scholarship is awarded to a non-traditional student (greater than 22 years of age) of any major attending UWO Fox Cities.  This scholarship is unique in that it provides $1,000 to the recipient for the first semester of enrollment with an additional $2,000 awarded in up to three each succeeding semesters providing the student continues to qualify.

“I am pursuing a degree in Human Resources to try to change the stigma surrounding HR. In most professional settings, it seems like a visit to HR may be deemed a negative situation.  I have chosen to look at Human Resources as a department that exists to help employees. I am trying to change the outward appearance of a department that is dreaded and turn it into something positive.” 

Receiving the scholarship has already had an impact on Samantha’s life.

“Receiving this scholarship has made a tremendous difference in my personal life already.  My self-worth and confidence have grown exponentially. I just received word of it nearly four weeks ago and it’s meant that I can afford to take more than one class per semester thus achieving my dreams that much sooner.

“I don’t think that thank you is enough but thank you! Because of your generosity you’ve given me an opportunity to attend a college that I didn’t think I’d ever be able to afford and an opportunity to better myself for the sake of my entire family.  It’s also inspired me to have long talks with my husband about potentially being able to create a scholarship fund like this in order to help people like myself later in life.”

Awarded to a new UWO Fox Cities student with a minimum 3.5 GPA or a continuing or transfer student with a minimum 3.0 GPA, the Howard and Alice Curler Academic Excellence Scholarship seeks to promote academic achievement as well as recognize community and school leadership qualifies.

Evan Halverson a graduate of Menasha High School is one of two 2021-22 recipients of the award which is offered to students of any academic major.  Evan’s major is Information Systems and explained it this way.

“The ability to integrate technology with conventional business procedures is a set of in-demand skills that will continue to revolutionize the business world and create a more efficient and productive economy. My goal is to continue to develop my skills and build a portfolio of successful projects until I have the expertise to start my own technology business.” 

Evan explained the impact the $1,750 scholarship award will have for him personally.

“This scholarship enables me to spend more time focusing on school and less time working during the school year, while preventing me from going into significant debt. I really appreciate the support.”

With an aspiration to become a Mechanical Engineer, Jesse Hartjes, is one of the recipients of the 2021-22 UWO Fox Cities Campus Engineering Scholarship.  This scholarship is awarded to a junior or senior enrolled in the UWO Fox Cities campus/UW Platteville engineering program at the UWO Fox Cities campus.  The scholarship is a $2,000 award.

Jesse identified his career path early in life.

“Ever since I was a young kid, I loved problem solving, designing things, and building them. The fact of being able to design and make those ideas I come up with in my head a reality, has always been very cool to me!  Mechanical engineering is something I enjoy doing and can definitely see myself doing for the rest of my life.”

“My two favorite professors at the Fox Cities campus are Professor Carrie Tirel (mathematics) and Professor Steven Sheehan (history). They both dedicate much of their time to individual students outside of class and have never left a question unanswered or unclear. The process in which they teach their material is also very organized and clear.”

Jesse expressed his gratitude to the donor who made this scholarship possible and explained it’s impact for him.

“This scholarship will allow me to come out of my collegiate career with little to no debt by working many hours in the summer and by receiving scholarships like this.  I am grateful to everyone involved in making this scholarship possible!  Thanks to the generosity from people like you, it makes achieving my goals much easier.”

Maria King, an elementary education major and graduate of Kimberly High School is a 2021-22 recipient of the Howard and Alice Curler Academic Excellence Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to a new or continuing full-time student attending UWO Fox Cities campus who have demonstrated community and school leadership qualities.  The scholarship award is $1,750.

“My current career goal is to finish college and find a teaching job, preferably teaching 3^rd graders because this is the specific level that I would love to teach,” explained Maria.

 “I have always loved working with children and watching them grow into who they are.  I also love putting smiles on other’s faces.”

Maria explained the impact of her scholarship this way.

“By receiving this scholarship it allows me to pursue my dream of becoming an elementary teacher.  It gives me many opportunities to grow and to become the best version of me. 

As a future educator, Maria recognizes the magnifying future impact that her scholarship has.

“Thank you so much for making this scholarship possible.  You are truly helping many people, including me, be able to pursue their dreams.”

“This is the first scholarship I’ve ever received and it has made me become more confident at pursuing my higher education,” says Peter Lo recipient of the 2021-22 Neenah Menasha King’s Daughters Scholarship.  This scholarship is awarded to a new or continuing full-time non-traditional student (22 years or older) who is attending UWO Fox Cities campus.  The student must have a 2.75 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and must have well-reasoned career plans.

“Since the passing of my father in 2019, I’ve wanted to stay closer with my mother to make sure that she is okay, and if she needs anything I would be there to help her. I also wanted to save money on my general classes as well before moving onto the main campus. Having this scholarship allowed me to not be stressed over how I’m going to pay for my books.”

Peter intends to major in International Relations and minor in Japanese.

“I want to understand and build relationships between different cultures and be able to see what we can learn from one another. I think it’s amazing that we are all so different, but at the same time so similar.” 

Peter has no specific career in place yet but expects it to be in government and to involve travel to help those in need.

“I was shocked when I received the letter that I was chosen to be a recipient of this scholarship. I want to express my gratitude to the donors who’ve made this scholarship possible.

I very much appreciate their generosity and support. Thank you for being part of my journey.”

Chancellor Rabas is the 2021-22 recipient of the John D. Silha Memorial Scholarship. Named for John D. Silha, professor of Economics and Business Administration, the scholarship is awarded to a full time or part time second year UWO Fox Cities student.  The award is for $500.

Chancellor is a graduate of Appleton West High School and mechanical engineering major.

“I have always been interested in how things work, especially things with engines. Mechanical engineering seemed like a good fit for me. My goal is to work in the automotive field in some manner because I enjoy everything to do with cars.”

Reflecting on his college experience which included face to face and virtual learning methods through the pandemic, Chancellor identified his favorite professor.

“My favorite professor so far has been Greg Peter (sociology) because he tried his best to manage the hybrid learning we were forced into last year. He seemed to genuinely care about student success and worked to make class as best as possible.”

Chancellor chose UWO Fox Cities because it was a sensible option for him enabling him to live at home and diminish the cost of college.  Receiving this scholarship helped too.

“I would like to thank all involved with this scholarship. My parents and I are paying in full for my education so this reduces the burden for us this year.”

Kylee Smet is one of two recipients of the 2021-22 Gary McGoey Scholarship.  The scholarship is awarded annually to two full time students attending the UWO Fox Cities campus pursuing any major.  Financial need is a consideration in making the $1,250 award.

Kylee is a graduate of Seymour High School with an eye towards international business.

“I think this career path opens lots of doors both domestically and internationally.  I want to understand and appreciate other customs and cultures by working alongside people from around the world,” explained Kylee.

“My goal is to look back on my career and know that I’ve made a difference and done a good job.”

Like many students Kylee works to pay for her college education.

“Receiving this scholarship will allow me to worry less about how I’m going to be able to afford school.  Instead of putting in as many long hours on the job, I can spend more time studying and learning to prepare for a job I really want to have in the future.  This scholarship really means a lot to me.”

“Receiving this scholarship means the word to me,” begins Lucie Spanbauer, recipient of the 2021-22 Jackie Johnson Fox Communities Credit Union Scholarship.

“I have never received anything like this before and opening that letter saying ‘Congratulations’ is indescribable.  Receiving this scholarship will forever change my view on grades and classes because it encourages me based on the credits I’ve already achieved.”

Lucie’s current major is Information systems with a career goal to become a cyber solution architect.

“What interested me in information systems was there is often, a problem, and a solution. Information systems to me is about cyber security, and in cyber security I would be constantly working with problems and using my knowledge to create new solutions.”   

While some scholarships target students with ability but needing financial assistance, others are awarded for academic merit.  Whether they are awarded for academic merit, financial need, or both they are an effective way to recognize and encourage students.

The Jackie Johnson Fox Community Credit Union Scholarship is awarded to a UWO Fox Cities campus student pursuing a degree in Information Technology or Computer Science.  The student may be part time (6 credit minimum) or full time (12 credits or more) with a 3.0 GPA and demonstrated community involvement.  The scholarship was created as a memorial to Jackie Johnson the Assistant VP of Information Services for Fox Communities Credit Union.  It is a $1,500 scholarship.

Colin Van De Loo has a plan and a back-up plan. Regardless of which path he takes, he’s grateful that the Howard and Alice Curler Academic Excellence Scholarship will help him to achieve.  The scholarship is awarded to a new or continuing full-time student attending UWO Fox Cities campus who have demonstrated community and school leadership qualities.  The scholarship award is $1,750.

Collin explained both is primary goal and his back up plan, “While I plan on majoring in Agribusiness, this major only serves as my backup plan for my desire to pursue medicine. While I have enjoyed my early life on the farm, I have since found a greater passion for the medical field, knowing that I can provide more for medicine than I can for agriculture

“I currently plan on specializing in Orthopedics and hope to receive a career as an Orthopedic Surgeon. I’ve chosen this career path because I want to provide comfort and healing to those that experience more than just physical pain. I believe being a doctor means much more than physically healing someone. A doctor is a caregiver that should provide emotional comfort as well, and I believe I can provide a holistic caring environment.”

Colin chose UWO Fox Cities recognizing that achieving his medical goal would be expensive.

“The low cost specifically caught my eye because my educational career is certainly not going to be the cheapest when including medical school. I felt as if attending a cheaper school to receive my general education was one of the smartest decisions I have ever made because it will allow me to save money for my future education. In the grand scheme of things, this decision will have greatly impacted my financial and educational life.”

Receiving the Howard and Alice Curler Academic Excellence scholarship factors in too. 

“By receiving this scholarship, it has relieved the stress of finances for me. By receiving this gift, I can focus more on my academics rather than working to save up money for my future years in education.

“I want to deeply thank the donors that made my scholarship possible for your generosity and selflessness. Through the money that you have donated, you are giving many students a greater opportunity to pursue an education that may have been difficult to achieve due to the obstacle of money. Your donation will not be forgotten and will certainly be payed forward in the future.” 

The 2021-22 recipient of the Fox Cities Marathon Scholarship is Preston Von Offeren and the $1,750 scholarship award is greatly appreciated.

“This scholarship will greatly help me pay for my college. I’m a full-time student working part time and I’m paying for college solely by myself. This scholarship relieves a ton of stress that I would’ve had to put into work.”

A graduate of Appleton North High School, Preston’s anticipated major is Physical Therapy.

“Within the last two years I tore my thumb and needed surgery on it, following the surgery I had several months of physical therapy and while undergoing such, everything about the job intrigued me,” explained Preston.

Preston chose UWO Fox Cities to save money and to get more personal attention from faculty.

Preston continued that he was impressed by, “how personable everyone seems to be (both students and teachers), and it seems like everyone can fit in just about anywhere. I love the student to faculty ratio.” 

“I would like to thank all who made it possible for me to receive this scholarship. I’m very proud and thankful that I was chosen.”

Marliee Williamson is this year’s recipient of the J.C. Bubloz Memorial Scholarship and the Veldor Kopitzke Scholarship.  The scholarship awards are for $1,000 and $750 respectively.

The J.C. Bubolz Scholarship is awarded to new or continuing full-time UWO Fox Cities campus students who have a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrated financial need.  The Veldor Kopitzke Scholarship is awarded to a full-time student attending UWO Fox Cities campus who is pursuing a degree in Economics or Business with a minimum 3.0 GPA.  This award was created by and named for Veldor Kopitzke, former UW Fox Valley professor of Business Administration & Economics. 

With accounting as her major Marilee’s career goal is to become a Certified Management Accountant.

“I am pursuing this as a career because I enjoy working with numbers and analyzing documents.  I pay good attention to detail, so I feel this career will be a good fit for me.

 “One of my favorite professors is Mary Diederich, who I had for Intro to Business. Her class was very organized, and she always included real world examples that she has experienced in the business world in her lectures, which made them very interesting. Another favorite professor is Carrie Tirel, for Business Calculus. She is very kind and truly cares about all her students. She always is available for help and really makes sure that you understand the concepts.”

“Receiving my scholarships impact me immensely.  Receiving this money for my education is a huge advantage.  My scholarship plays a large factor in helping me reach my educational and career goals.  I am so grateful to the donors.  I am sincerely honored to have received these scholarships.”

“I’ve always been interested in the world, the news, and politics,” explains political science major and Howard and Alice Curler Academic Excellence Scholarship recipient Maria Aldana.

“Political Science is such a broad field.  There are so many (career) options. I am interested in the world and making a difference in it.”

Maria is a graduate of Appleton North High School and a returning student to UWO Fox Cities.

“I chose UWO Fox Cities because I still wanted to be close to home.  I also thought it would be a good stepping stone and transition for me.”

Professor Erin Demuynck and recently retired professor George Waller were some of Maria’s favorites.

“Professor Waller taught political science and he is so knowledgeable and genuinely cares about his students.  Dr. DeMuynck teaches geography.  She is so kind and passionate about her job.  Her classes are so much fun!”

The Howard and Alice Curler Academic Excellence Scholarship is awarded to new of continuing full-time students attending UWO Fox Cities who have demonstrated community and school leadership qualities.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the donors who make this scholarship possible.  I thank them for their faith and support.” 

Becoming a mechanical engineer for a company in the archery industry is a logical career choice for Grant Bolwerk.

“I’ve always enjoyed problem solving and tinkering with and modifying equipment and archery is my passion,” explained Grant.

Grant is the 2020-21 recipient of two scholarships awarded by the University of Wisconsin Fox Cities Foundation, the UWO Fox Cities Campus Engineering Scholarship and the William R. Bassett Engineering Scholarship.  The UWO Fox Cities Campus Engineering Scholarship is awarded to students at the junior or senior level enrolled in the UWO Fox Cities/UW-Platteville Engineering program.  It is a $2,000 award.  The William R. Bassett Engineering Scholarship is awarded to a Wisconsin resident enrolled in the UWO-Fox Cities campus/UW Platteville Engineering program as a rising junior or senior and with a minimum 3.0 GPA.  Financial need is a consideration.  It is a $1,000 award.

“My goal is to graduate with my bachelor’s degree without ever taking a student loan.  These scholarships along with working two jobs this summer has allowed me to do that and with the money I’ve saved I was finally able to buy a more reliable vehicle to get to class every day!”

Grant is grateful to the donors who made his scholarships possible.

“Thank you for allowing me to continue working towards my goals both academically and in my personal life!”

“Working in the UN has been my dream since I was a kid. I want to work in the global environment. I also have a high interest in lots of global issues. I want to use my knowledge and skills for others, not for my self-interest. UN is a huge organization which works hard to solve lots of global issues in various fields around the world. So I want to be part of that organization and build a career there.”

Working towards a degree in business with a specialization in marketing and an interest in global business trends,  Jihae Choi is not only ambitious but sets high standards for herself.  As this year’s recipient of the Esther Kliefoth Stutzman Excellence Scholarship, the minimum standards include full-time status at the UWO Fox Cities campus, demonstrated excellence in classes with a minimum of a 3.5 GPA, and other achievements.  It is a $900 scholarship.

Jihae explained the impact of earning her scholarship. “As an international student, the tuition is higher than what the local students pay and it was a burden for my parents, especially, since it was in the middle of the pandemic. I was so thankful when I received the scholarship because I could relieve my parents’ burden a little bit. Moreover, the scholarship inspired me to work and study harder.

“It was my first time getting a scholarship as a college student. So it made me more confident and allowed me to focus on my studies and inspired me to work hard. Also, after getting this scholarship, it inspired me to apply as an RA (Resident Advisor) in student housing and I could get a new job.

“I was very happy to learn that I was a recipient of the Ester Kliefoth scholarship. I very appreciate your kind, generous financial support towards my higher education. Thank you again for your generous gift.”

“I have always had a strong desire to learn about human emotion, interaction, and development. I love learning about and understanding what makes people who they are,” explains Gwendolyn Gruber the 2020-21 recipient of the John D. Silha Memorial Scholarship.

“I enjoy working with others especially kids and helping them feel valued, cared for, and understood. I think it’s important to decrease the amount of abandonment, loneliness, and emotional and physical abuse people experience in the world and instead provide them with happiness, hope and love.”

The John D. Silha Memorial Scholarship was created to honor beloved UW Fox Business Administration and Accounting faculty member John D. Silha.  The annual award is given to a student who is a second year continuing student at the UWO Fox Cities campus who may be either part time or full time.  It is a $500 award.

Gwendolyn, like many students attending UWO Fox Cities, is paying her own way through college and so this scholarship is very helpful. Gwendolyn chose the campus because it is close to home and because it allows her to continue to actively volunteer while attaining an excellent education.

“This scholarship enables me to continue to my education and chase my dreams. I would like to personally thank the donors who made my scholarship possible.  Without the help and their generosity, it would be so much more difficult to accomplish my educational goals and achieve my career dreams.”

Completing her life’s circle by achieving her degree in elementary education and returning to Chilton Elementary school as a teacher is the goal of Heather Karls, this year’s recipient of the Gary McGoey Scholarship. 

The Gary McGoey Scholarship is a $1,000 scholarship awarded to students regardless of major.  The financial needs of applicants may be part of the selection criteria.

“I enjoy being around kids and want to be able to have a positive impact on them,” explained Heather.  “I have always wanted to be a teacher since I was little and have never seen myself doing anything else as a career.”

A 2020 graduate of Chilton High School, Heather chose UWO Fox Cities because it is close to home and not an overly big campus where she can save money and receive more personalized instruction. 

“Receiving this scholarship personally impacts me by knowing that my determination and hard work that I have put into school has paid off, and that my characteristics and abilities didn’t go unnoticed.”

Whether she returns to Chilton Elementary school as a teacher or teaches elsewhere, Heather is grateful for donors to the University of Wisconsin Fox Cities Foundation like Gary McGoey who contribute towards scholarships for students.

I was always interested in the business field, so I decided to do Human Resource Management.  I did look over other majors in the business field, but Human Resource Management was the one that I wanted to go in and understand. 

My current career goal is to get my Bachelors in Human Resource Management.  Also, during my college studies I want to get an internship for one year or more.  This will help me achieve experience, which is required in today’s workforce.  I also want to go to school to get my MBA after doing 2-3 years of job.   

 The major Human Resource Management will allow me to work with many people.  It will allow me to connect better with the employees and help them understand the management of a company better.  Human Resource employees are needed in every field which is why I like this field.  

I received the Howard and Alice Curler Academic Excellence Scholarship and I am very thankful for that.  It has given me more motivation to succeed in my career.  Also, this scholarship has shown me that I can achieve more scholarships with my hard work.  This scholarship has shown me that I can do further education beyond Bachelor’s.   

I am very thankful to the donors who gave me this scholarship.  I want to thank them because they saw the potential in me to give me this scholarship.  Thank you for choosing me as a recipient. 

“I love children and want to help to make children’s lives and the lives of their families better,” is Alexa Navarro’s ambition.

Alexa is one of the recipients of a UW Fox Cities Foundation General Scholarship for 2020-21.

The scholarship was particularly important to helping Alexa because she was laid off from work for a month as a result of the COVID pandemic and receipt of the scholarship helped to offset the loss of income.

“I work to pay my tuition costs. College is expensive and the scholarship helps to relieve some of the financial stress and allows me to have more time to focus on school,” said Alexa.  “I couldn’t be more grateful to the donors. This was so incredibly helpful.”

As a returning student at the UWO Fox Cities campus, Alexa particularly enjoys Professor Ellen Wilson psychology classes.  “I really enjoying going to class. I learned not only psychology but also life lessons because Professor Wilson finds ways to make the concepts applicable to real life.”

Alexa hopes to become a social worker, perhaps with an emphasis in juvenile justice.

“Receiving this scholarship has been the gift of a lifetime. I was apprehensive about pursuing a college degree at 35 years old.”

Luiza Nelson’s story is not uncommon for many students attending UWO Fox Cities.  Luiza had worked most of her adult life in a variety of capacities in the corporate world and tried to balance employment and raising a family.

“When my husband and I decided for me to leave my job to stay home with our youngest, it allowed me to rethink my life choices. I knew I was the happiest when teaching but knew I did not have a degree to make it a career. 

“With my husband’s support, I decided to pursue a degree to be a teacher. It was not an easy decision: we are a single income family, I have three children in school, and I had been out of high school for almost two decades.”

Luiza’s goal is to pursue a degree in secondary education focusing on social sciences.  She hopes to teach at a rural school or in a school district at the middle school or high school level that has a hard time attracting new teachers.

“Especially since I was not working, and my husband is the sole provider for the family. We can manage on one income, but there is no room for tuition, fees, and books for my education. I knew the only way I could pursue my degree would be through scholarships. I did not want to jeopardize my family’s financials to attend classes. 

As the 2020-21 recipient of the Paul J. Werner Scholarship of the University of Wisconsin Fox Cities Foundation, Luiza receives a $1,000 scholarship awarded to a full-time student attending UWO Fox Cities campus. Luiza is also receiving the Women’s Alliance Scholarship.  The Women’s Alliance Scholarship is a scholarship awarded to female students 25 years or older who will be attending an accredited technical college, two or four year college as a full time student. It is a $1,000 scholarship awarded by the Community Foundation of the Fox Valley Region.

“I cannot thank these two organizations enough because without them I would not be able to pursue my education. It allows me to focus on my studies without having the burden of the financial impact on my family,” said Luiza.

Kaden Piechocki, a 2020 graduate of Shiocton High School, is this year’s recipient of the Howard and Alice Curler Academic Excellence Scholarship.  This award is given to new or continuing full-time students who will be attending UWO Fox Cities who have demonstrated community and school leadership qualities.  The scholarship award is for $1,250.

“Receiving this scholarship greatly helps me because now I will be able to spend less time working to be able to afford school and more time studying and enjoying my time on campus,” explains Kaden.

Beginning his college career at UWO Fox Cities this fall, Kaden’s anticipated major is Mechanical Engineering.

“I enjoy designing things and working with my hands,” explains Kaden. “This career path suits me the best and will help me to live my best life.”

The UWO Fox Cities campus and this scholarship work together to help Kaden accomplish his goals.

“My goal is to become a mechanical engineer with as little student debt as possible. I chose UWO Fox Cities because it was close to home and affordable. I also prefer the small campus and the Fox Valley region.

Like other recipients of University of Wisconsin Fox Cities Foundation scholarships, Kaden expressed his gratitude to donors like Howard and Alice Curler who had the vision and faith in creating and establishing a scholarship.

“I really want to say a sincere thank you and I hope I can show the donors I earned this scholarship.”

“Working with animals has always been a strong passion of mine and later on in my life, I found that the veterinary field would allow me to best utilize my gifts and open doors for me to explore my interests.” Explained Katya Quinones with a career goal of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and recipient of this year’s William Guither Science Scholarship

The William Guither Science Scholarship is awarded to a continuing full time student attending the UWO Fox Cities campus, pursuing a major in the sciences, and a minimum 3.0 GPA.  It is a $1,300 scholarship.

“Receiving this scholarship took a huge weight off my chest and moves me one step closer to achieving my career goals. Due to COVID-19, finding financial stability prior to the beginning of the fall semester was a significant struggle. This scholarship provided that stability and extra encouragement that I needed to forge on through the year with confidence.”

“Considering my long term career goal, UWO Fox Cities was the best place for me to take the first step both educationally and financially. Educationally, I knew that the professors and classes would be exactly what I was looking for in my first years of college. Financially, this college allows me to focus more on my studies and gives me the opportunity to work consistently at a local veterinary clinic where I can continue to grow in my knowledge and experience while becoming financially stable”.  

 “Receiving this scholarship helps me immensely,” said Alyssa, recipient of the Fox Cities Amateur Sports Authority Scholarship.  “I am paying for all my college expenses myself, so by receiving help from donors, I am able to continue to save money for future years, books, and other expenses.  I struggle financially with affording college and this makes it easier for me to focus on my studies and less on how to pay for college.”

A Neenah High School graduate, as Alyssa begins her second year on the UWO Fox Cities campus she is exploring multiple career paths but leaning towards elementary education.

“Whether I am working with children, or doing something else, my goal is to be passionate and happy with my work.  Currently I would like to become a kindergarten teacher.  I am pursuing this as a career because a teacher and instill important lessons as well as be a safe place for children who do not have a good home life.”

“Elementary students are at a point in their life where learning and developing new skills is extremely critical and I want to contribute to help shape future generations. I have always wanted to contribute in society, so becoming a teacher is one way of me actively participating”

Alyssa acknowledges the generosity of donors who made the Fox Cities Amateur Sports Authority Scholarship and other scholarships possible. 

“Without these donors, I would have more stress and could possibly not have my career goals come true. I am grateful for this opportunity and excited to begin another semester toward accomplishing my goals.”

The Fox Cities Amateur Sports Authority Scholarship is awarded to full-time students of any major who will be attending UWO Fox Cities campus. Financial need is considered as part of the scholarship criteria. The award is $2,000.

Congratulations to Zitlalli Ruiz Martinez as the recipient of the 2020-21 Fox Cities Amateur Sports Authority Scholarship.  The scholarship is for $2,000 and awarded to a full-time student attending UWO Fox Cities campus pursuing any major. Financial need is a consideration in making the award.

Coming from a family with six family members, Zitlalli explained the impact of receiving her scholarship,

 “The scholarship has helped tremendously financially.  It has also given me more strength and will on wanting to further my education and take advantage of it.

Zitlalli is a graduate of Appleton East High School.  It was at Appleton East that Zitlalli first learned about accounting.  Zitlalli’s career goal is to assume a leadership position within the accounting field.

“I’d like to thank the donors who made my scholarship possible.  It helped me be a first-generation college student.  This scholarship will help me to reach my potential.”

Congratulations to Zitlalli Ruiz Martinez as the recipient of the 2020-21 Fox Cities Amateur Sports Authority Scholarship.  The scholarship is for $2,000 and awarded to a full-time student attending UWO Fox Cities campus pursuing any major. Financial need is a consideration in making the award.

Coming from a family with six family members, Zitlalli explained the impact of receiving her scholarship,

 “The scholarship has helped tremendously financially.  It has also given me more strength and will on wanting to further my education and take advantage of it.

Zitlalli is a graduate of Appleton East High School.  It was at Appleton East that Zitlalli first learned about accounting.  Zitlalli’s career goal is to assume a leadership position within the accounting field.

“I’d like to thank the donors who made my scholarship possible.  It helped me be a first-generation college student.  This scholarship will help me to reach my potential.”

Receiving the Verne Imhoff Scholarship made a world of difference to this year’s recipient Anise Shipley.

“For the first four months of COVID 19, I lost my mains source of income.  I was able to keep my other job as a waitress but my hours were cut.”

The Verne Imhoff Scholarship is awarded to either part-time (minimum of 6 credits) or full-time (minimum of 12 credits) UWO Fox Cities campus students.  Financial need is a consideration factor in making the $1,000 award.

Anise is a sociology major who aspires to make a difference in the lives of people who are marginalized in our society.

“My upbringing has influenced me to see the ways in which different factors affect our lives.  Being raised in a working poor single mother household, has shown me how our system is for those of lower socioeconomic status and the ways it affects those people.  I want to help different marginalized groups and change legislation and work alongside programs that are meant to help those in need.”

“Thank you so much.  You have no idea how much it means to me and how much it helped me through this semester.  To even be considered for this scholarship is amazing and to be a recipient has helped me further my education and my future.”

Learning about the brain and how it works is a passion for Brianna Ver Voort, the 2020-21 recipient of the J.C. Bubolz Memorial Scholarship awarded by the University of Wisconsin Fox Cities Foundation.

“I realized in high school my passion for learning about psychology, specifically the brain and how it works.  I also enjoy working with kids, so I am pursuing helping the younger age group in my future career,” said Brianna.

Brianna chose UWO Fox Cities because it’s close to home and the smaller class sizes appeal to her, particularly getting to know her professors in these smaller settings.”

“My favorite professor is Ellen Wilson who taught both my Developmental Psychology class and my Elementary Psychology statistics class. She’s very encouraging, open to everyone’s ideas, engaging by encouraging class discussion and questions. She provides one of the most welcoming classroom environments possible.”

Recipients of the J.C. Bubolz Memorial Scholarship may be a new or continuing full student attending UWO Fox Cities, have maintained a 3.0 GPA, and have demonstrated financial need.  The scholarship is a $1,000 award.

“This scholarship will help me pay for my tuition and living costs this year, so that I’m able to focus more on my studies and learning opportunities, and worry less about the financial burden that comes with my education. I’m so grateful that I’m able to receive this gift as an investment into my education and future career. I appreciate this gift even more as our nation goes through this difficult time.”

Marliee Williamson is this year’s recipient of the J.C. Bubloz Memorial Scholarship and the Veldor Kopitzke Scholarship.  The scholarship awards are for $1,000 and $750 respectively.

The J.C. Bubolz Scholarship is awarded to new or continuing full-time UWO Fox Cities campus students who have a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrated financial need.  The Veldor Kopitzke Scholarship is awarded to a full-time student attending UWO Fox Cities campus who is pursuing a degree in Economics or Business with a minimum 3.0 GPA.  This award was created by and named for Veldor Kopitzke, former UW Fox Valley professor of Business Administration & Economics. 

With accounting as her major Marilee’s career goal is to become a Certified Management Accountant.

“I am pursuing this as a career because I enjoy working with numbers and analyzing documents.  I pay good attention to detail, so I feel this career will be a good fit for me.

 “One of my favorite professors is Mary Diederich, who I had for Intro to Business. Her class was very organized, and she always included real world examples that she has experienced in the business world in her lectures, which made them very interesting. Another favorite professor is Carrie Tirel, for Business Calculus. She is very kind and truly cares about all her students. She always is available for help and really makes sure that you understand the concepts.”

“Receiving my scholarships impact me immensely.  Receiving this money for my education is a huge advantage.  My scholarship plays a large factor in helping me reach my educational and career goals.  I am so grateful to the donors.  I am sincerely honored to have received these scholarships.”

Attaining her degree in Biology and becoming a high school biology teacher with one day perhaps becoming a university professor are the goals for Ella Keuler, the 2020 recipient of the Gary McGoey Scholarship awarded by the University of Wisconsin Fox Cities Foundation.

“I have always loved learning and school was always a good place for me.  As I got older, my love for learning, especially biology, only grew as I had amazing teachers who cared.  I also realized how much more teachers did for their students than just teach.  It became obvious how much of a positive impact a teacher can have on their students, and I want to be able to be a positive influence in the lives of my students one day too.  Also, I get paid to talk about biology all day, how awesome is that?”

To Ella receiving the scholarship award not only acknowledged her academic skills but eased the financial strain.

“My scholarship is very impactful for me, as I am responsible for paying for my education.  Currently I am working three jobs, so this scholarship has lifted a little weight off my shoulder so I can relax a little and put more time into my studies.

“I just want to thank everyone who contributes to make these scholarships possible.  Because you value education, you have helped so many students who may have not had opportunities to learn. These scholarships are impactful not just for me, but for all students.”

The Gary McGoey Scholarship is awarded to full-time students attending UWO Fox Cities and pursuing any major. Financial need is a consideration in determining the award.  It is a $1,000 scholarship.