Establishing a Scholarship at UW-Parkside
Providing educational opportunities through private gifts has become a tradition at UW-Parkside, with nearly 100 scholarships currently helping approximately 200 students achieve their academic goals.
By establishing a scholarship, you join a distinguished community of benefactors from all walks of life who share a common desire to ensure that students can attend the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, regardless of their financial circumstances.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Cynthia Jensen, Director of Scholarships and the Annual Fund via e-mail or at (262) 595-3245.
What Kind of Scholarships May Be Established?
Scholarships may be established as a gift to the university, or as an honor, tribute, or memorial to individuals. They fall into two categories: endowed or annual.
ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS create a permanent fund. Contributions are prudently invested to ensure that the scholarship retains its value in years to come. Scholarships established through endowments are funded through the interest earned by the endowment. The Foundation works with Johnson Asset Management.
Each endowed named scholarship begins with an initial gift of at least $20,000. The principle of these funds is never invaded and awards are generated from the earnings.
ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS reflect a donor's commitment to support a scholarship for a limited number of years. The minimum time commitment is five years and the minimum annual dollar amount needed to establish a named annual scholarship is $1,000.
May I Have Input Into the Selection of a Recipient?
Scholarship donors may specify criteria/guidelines to be used for the selection of a recipient. University representatives will use those criteria during the selection process.
Establishing Criteria
The donor and the development officer establish guidelines for both endowed and annual scholarships. This is based on the donor's interest and university/student needs.
Scholarship Criteria Discussion Points & Information
What is the exact name you wish the scholarship to have?
The Awards and Ceremonies Committee is responsible for selecting recipients for scholarships.
Grade point average requirements:
- 2.5 is the minimum allowed
- 3.0 – 3.4 is the norm;
- 3.5+ is designated for those scholarships that carry the greatest prestige.
Awards can be made for entering or continuing students.
Scholarships can be automatically renewed, given as a one-time award or require a new application each year.
Scholarships can be restricted or preference may be given for certain areas.
To make the broadest use of scholarship resources to attract the best students possible, it is suggested that residency requirements be left open.
