Callahan-Palmer Charitable Trust Approves $600,000 to Support UW-Parkside’s Callahan Scholars Program in 2026–27

KENOSHA, Wis. — The Callahan-Palmer Trust has approved $600,000 in support of the Callahan Scholars program for the 2026–27 academic year, strengthening a longstanding partnership focused on educational opportunity for Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD) students at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside.

The approved funding will support scholarships for current and incoming scholars, continued success coaching for program participants, expanded hands-on learning and emergency aid assistance, and a significant contribution toward the Callahan Scholars endowment to ensure long-term sustainability of the program.

“This renewed support from the Callahan-Palmer Trust ensures that students with high financial need—many of whom are first-generation college students—can access not only financial resources, but also mentoring, coaching, and the supportive campus experience that drives student success in our community. In many ways, Callahan Scholars embodies the spirit and mission of UW-Parkside,” said Chancellor Lynn Akey.

Ahead of the 2026–27 program year, UW-Parkside has updated the recruitment and selection process for new Callahan Scholars in partnership with KUSD leadership and UW-Parkside Admissions, Callahan Scholars, and Financial Aid teams. The updated process emphasizes strategic school engagement and allows KUSD teachers, counselors, coaches, and other school personnel to identify potential applicants.

Included in the gift is a $300,000 endowment contribution to continue development of a growing fund intended to support Callahan Scholars scholarships beginning in 2027–28. Once fully earned, the $1.8 million Callahan Scholars endowment is projected to generate approximately $81,000 annually in spendable earnings, strengthening the university’s ability to sustain scholarship support for students over time.

“This investment reflects our shared commitment to student success and long-term opportunity,” said Crystal Callahan. “We are proud to partner with UW-Parkside and KUSD to support students who will thrive with access to both financial assistance and the wraparound support that the Callahan Scholars program provides.”

About the Callahan Scholars Program

The Callahan Scholars program supports graduates of Kenosha Unified School District high schools who demonstrate financial need and academic potential. Scholars receive scholarship assistance as well as structured support services, including one-on-one coaching, community engagement opportunities, and programming designed to support persistence, belonging, and success throughout the college experience. 

Since its founding in 1968, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside has been a trusted partner for the region’s higher educational needs, empowering students to thrive, advancing applied knowledge, and developing talent for the future. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificates and pre-professional programs, designed to foster personal and professional growth through real-world and impactful learning experiences. Located in the dynamic Chicago-Milwaukee corridor, UW-Parkside offers unmatched access to world-class internships, professional networks, and endless career-building opportunities, placing students at the center of it all.

Media Contact:
Communications Manager
University of Wisconsin-Parkside
marcomm@uwp.edu