Posted 11:20 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025
UWL Alumni & Friends Scholarship Reception celebrates nearly $2 million awarded to students
This fall, the UW-La Crosse Alumni & Friends Foundation celebrated the generosity of donors whose gifts continue to transform students’ lives.
During the annual Alumni & Friends Scholarship Reception Oct. 3, students and supporters gathered to reflect on the power of philanthropy and the opportunities it creates across campus.
For the 2025-26 academic year, the Foundation awarded approximately $1.85 million in scholarships — a total of 1,284 individual awards benefiting 937 students. Each award helps ease financial pressures and allows students to focus more fully on their education and goals.
“All of this is possible because of our donors,” said Allison Ziegelman, vice chancellor for University Advancement and Foundation president. “We could not be more thrilled by these results and excited for what’s ahead in the coming academic year. Thanks to each and every one of you for your support.”
For many students, these scholarships represent more than financial assistance; they are a reminder of the community that believes in them.
“Receiving UWL Foundation scholarships has given me the freedom to focus on gaining new experiences rather than financial stress,” says Claire Nickerson, one of the evening’s student speakers. “Because of these opportunities, I am able to hold an internship and leadership roles that will help me build skills and knowledge that I will use long after graduation.”
Another scholarship recipient, Nainil (NJ) Mukesh Jariwala, echoed that sentiment.
“Thank you, UWL, for unlocking the resources that turned that dream into reality — a dream shared not just by me, but by my dad, my mom and my sister. For that, we are deeply grateful.”
The event highlighted how donor generosity reaches beyond the classroom. It helps UWL students pursue their ambitions, honor their families’ hopes and pay it forward to the next generation of Eagles.
Students enrolled for the 2026-27 academic year are now eligible to apply for Foundation scholarships. Applications opened Oct. 1 and are due Jan. 15 at midnight. Apply here.