Scholars + Donors Celebration 2024

BLACKHAWK TECHNICAL COLLEGE FOUNDATION

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2024

An event recognizing our scholarship recipients and the generosity of our donors who have opened doors and made college possible for our students.

Blackhawk Foundation Officers Dave Holterman, President First Community Bank

Jill Leitzen, Vice President KUHN North America, Inc.

Sue Ripsch, Secretary Mercyhealth (Retired)

Frank McKearn, Treasurer R.H. Batterman

Blackhawk Foundation Board of Directors Gretchen Burgess Murphy Desmond, S.C.

Renae Henry Century 21 Affiliated

Sharon Cox Beloit Health System

Phil Whitehead First Mid Bank & Trust

George Cullen JP Cullen

Kara Sankey Mercyhealth

Dr. Gregg Dickinson Janesville Pediatric Dental (Retired)

Angela Slagle Frito-Lay/PepsiCo

Jeff Garde Combs & Associates

Blackhawk Technical College District Board Eric A. Thornton, Chairperson SSM Health Barbara Barrington-Tillman, Vice-Chairperson Chief Deputy, Rock County Sheriff's Office (Retired) Rich Deprez, Secretary TDS Telecom

Kathy Sukus, Treasurer Rock County Communications (Retired)

Rachel Andres Prent Corporation

Suzann Holland Monroe Public Library

Robert Hendrickson PepsiCo/Frito-Lay

Mark Holzman Janesville School District Dave Marshick First National Bank and Trust Company

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Alliant Energy Electric Power Distribution Scholarship

Started in 2019, Alliant Energy established this scholarship to provide financial support to Blackhawk students in the Electric Power Distribution (EPD) Program.

Andrew Fisk, Electric Power Distribution Nicholas Sittner, Electric Power Distribution Scott Suddeth, Electric Power Distribution Ray Valdez-Zavala, Electric Power Distribution

Fall Spring Fall Fall

Alliant Energy Manufacturing Scholarship

In 2015, Alliant Energy established this scholarship in support of students enrolled in one of Blackhawk's Manufacturing Programs.

Carlos Castillo, Welding

Spring

Alpha Delta Kappa Scholarship

The Alpha Delta Kappa Omicron Chapter of Monroe, Wisconsin, established this scholarship to support Blackhawk students pursuing any degree program. The Alpha Delta Kappa is an international honorary organization for female educators.

Breanna Santiago, Nursing

Fall

Anna Schenker Memorial Scholarship

Established by David and Carole Schenker in 2023, this endowed scholarship is in loving memory of their daughter, Anna, who was known as "Anna Banana," to support students pursuing any program of study at Blackhawk.

Jaquelyn Cruz, Criminal Justice Studies Collin Fowler, Business Management

Spring Fall

Annual Scholarships from Freeport Health Network

Freeport Health Network, a regional healthcare system dedicated to the well-being of northwest Illinois and southern Wisconsin, provided two $500 scholarships for students pursuing Blackhawk Technical College's Medical Laboratory Technician degree.

Rodrigue Efalema, Medical Laboratory Technician Chanda Weide, Medical Laboratory Technician

Fall Fall

Annual Scholarship from Kathleen Siedenburg

Kathleen Siedenburg, Regional Admissions Coordinator with Concordia University, one of Blackhawk's University Partners, has provided a $250 scholarship for a Blackhawk student pursuing a degree in Business Management, Criminal Justice, Nursing/Nursing Pre-Clinical, Physical Therapy Assistant/Physical Therapy Assistant Pre-Clinical, or Human Services.

Kathleen Bond-Crull, Human Services Associate

Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

AVI Next Gen Scholarship Fund

Started in 2021 by AVI Systems, the AVI Next Gen Scholarship is awarded to students enrolled in Information Technology or STEM-Related Program.

Christian Kruckenberg, Web Software Developer Rene Sandoval, IT-Web Software Developer

Fall Spring

BACTE Endowed Scholarship

An endowed scholarship established in 2019 from the Blackhawk Association for Career and Technical Education (BACTE) to provide financial support to Blackhawk students in any program.

Kenadie Woodruff, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology

Fall

Ben Dickinson Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Dr. Gregg & Helen Dickinson established the Ben Dickinson Memorial Endowed Scholarship in 2020, in honor of their son, Ben, for students enrolled in Blackhawk's Manufacturing, Law, Public Safety, or any other program at the College.

Kaylynn Bacon, Associate of Science Fall Nichole Berger, Surgical Tech Spring Beau Buckner, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Spring Aisha Butler, Associate of Arts Fall Randy Gonzales, Electro-Mechanical Technology Fall Olivia Hopp, Criminal Justice Studies Fall Jonathan Kooyman, Electro-Mechanical Technology Fall Gabriel Thompson, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Fall

Bill Flatt Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2012 by the Flatt Family in honor of Bill W. Flatt, a beloved chef in Rock County, this endowed scholarship is awarded to a Blackhawk student each Fall semester who is enrolled in their second year of the Culinary Arts Program.

Leonardo Sanchez-Marquez, Culinary Arts

Fall

Blackhawk Foundation High School Scholarships

Established in 2020 to support graduating high school seniors in Rock and Green Counties pursuing Blackhawk Technical College as their post-secondary higher education institute, the Blackhawk Foundation provides a scholarship award to those students in any program of study.

Courtney Boynton, Criminal Justice Studies Kylie Bruner, Criminal Justice Studies Hunter Condon, Welding

Fall Fall Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Blackhawk Foundation High School Scholarships, cont'd

Clayton Dalton, IT - Technical Support Specialist Cayden Derhasen, Welding Yolanda Diaz, Associate of Arts Andrew Fisk, Electric Power Distribution Annabell Grover, Dental Hygienist Kenneth Hernandez, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Bryce Hughes, Criminal Justice Studies Parker Loofboro, Criminal Justice Studies Michelle Mejia, Early Childhood Education Karma Phillips, Dental Assistant Gwendelynn Podschweit, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Scarlett Ramos, Nursing Monica Reif, Agribusiness/Science Technology Wilhemina Schmidt, Radiography Samuel Schwengels, Culinary Arts Autumn Skinner, Nursing Isabelle Stumlin, Nursing Assistant

Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall

Blackhawk Foundation Scholarship

The Blackhawk Technical College Foundation awards scholarships each fall and spring semester to students pursuing any degree-seeking program at Blackhawk.

Haley Arneson, Radiography Tessa Bauman, Radiography Josiah Benjestorf, Culinary Arts Kristy Bennett, Radiography Brayden Bye, Welding Taylor Carnes, Radiography Rodrigue Efalema, Medical Laboratory Technician Michael Evers, Business Management Danielle Hein, Nursing Brianna Jacobs, Criminal Justice Studies Miriam Oro, Nursing Emanuel Rojas, Criminal Justice Studies Natty Sosa, Criminal Justice Studies Gwendolyn VanDomelen, Culinary Arts Jose Villegas, IT - Network Specialist

Spring Spring Spring Fall Fall Spring Spring Fall Spring Fall Spring Fall Fall Spring Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Blackhawk Golden K Kiwanis of Janesville Scholarship

The Blackhawk Golden K Kiwanis of Janesville established this scholarship to support students pursuing any program of study at Blackhawk.

Alicia Alvarado, Nursing Amanda Kalas, Human Services Associate

Fall Spring

Blackhawk Tech Faculty Federation Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2015 by the Blackhawk Technical Faculty Federation (BTFF), this endowed scholarship is awarded to Blackhawk students in any program.

Rebecca Barnett, Substance Abuse Disorder Counselor Fall Gabrielle Hoffmann, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Spring Brittney Hollman, Human Services Spring Harjoy Kaur, Physical Therapist Assistant Spring & Fall Leah Keirn, Physical Therapist Assistant Spring Samantha Lewey, Accounting Spring

Blain Gilbertson Family Scholarship

The Blain Gilbertson Family Scholarship was established in 2022 by Mick and Jane Blain Gilbertson along with their daughters Nicole and Sarah to provide full-ride scholarships to Blackhawk students pursuing a degree in the Agricultural, Business, or Transportation, Distribution & Logistics Programs.

Jessica Babcock, Human Resources James Osinga, Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician Passion Tann, Business Management

Fall Spring Spring

BlueScope Foundation Scholarship

Started in 2014 by the BlueScope Foundation, this scholarship supports students pursuing either Welding, Electro-Mechanical Technology, or Automated Systems Technology Programs at Blackhawk.

Brenna Pearson, Welding Andrew Perez, Welding

Fall Spring

Charter Next Generation (CNG) Scholarship

Started by Charter Next Generation (CNG) in 2022, this scholarship is for students enrolled in any Manufacturing Program at Blackhawk Technical College.

Monique Addison, Computer Numeric Control Technician Hunter Condon, Welding Michael Evers, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Spencer Pumphrey, Electro-Mechanical Technology

Spring Fall Spring Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Chris and Dawn Olson Endowed Scholarship

The Olson Family established the Chris and Dawn Olson Scholarship in 2014 for students in the Fire Protection Technician, Nursing, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Radiography, or Physical Therapy Assistant Programs. The late Chris Olson, a Blackhawk alumnus, also served on the Blackhawk Technical College District Board from 2002 to 2011. Dawn Olson is also a Blackhawk alumna.

Haley Arneson, Radiography Fall Gabrielle Hoffmann, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Spring Kristin Prien, Nursing Fall Tasha Zimmerman, Nursing Spring

Christine Scaccia-Lubeck Memorial Endowed Scholarship

In honor and memory of Christine Scaccia-Lubeck, a Blackhawk alumna from the Information Technology Program, Steve Scaccia, her father, created this endowed scholarship in 2018 to award to Blackhawk students enrolled in the Information Technology Program.

Juan Casas, IT - Network Specialist Malia Darling, Web Software Developer Marissa Lehman, Web Software Developer Ethan White, IT - Network Specialist

Fall Spring Spring Fall

Compeer Financial Scholarship

Started in 2022, the Compeer Financial Scholarship is awarded to Blackhawk students enrolled in an Agriculture Program who reside in Compeer's 144-county territory in Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

Abraham Clark, Agribusiness/Science Technology Jada Kletzke, Agribusiness/Science Technology

Fall Fall

Culinary Arts Scholarship for High School Seniors

Started in 2020, the Culinary Arts Scholarships for High School Seniors supports high school seniors pursuing Blackhawk Technical College's Culinary Arts Program.

Kenneth Baker, Culinary Arts Aria Clark, Culinary Arts Jared Funk, Culinary Production Specialist Jimmie Hines, Culinary Arts Leonardo Sanchez-Marquez, Culinary Arts Lillyanna Schmid, Culinary Production Specialist

Fall Spring Fall Spring Spring Spring

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Daniel J. Hartstern Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2009 by Dan's wife, Joan, and their four children, this endowed scholarship was created in memory of Blackhawk Technical College's former Vice President of Finance, Daniel Hartstern. The scholarship is awarded to students in Accounting or Business Management Programs.

Kasey Baldwin, Business Management Kaitlyn Elgin, Business Management Samantha Huizenga, Accounting Evelyn Portales, Business Management

Fall Spring Fall Spring

David Phillips Endowed Scholarship

Robert and Mary Ann Phillips established the David Phillips Endowed Scholarship in 2022 in memory of their brother, David, to support Blackhawk students in the Electric Power Distribution (EPD) or Manufacturing Programs. David always shared with others that his education at Blackhawk was the foundation that he needed to begin his career.

Amber Basiks, Manufacturing Engineering Technology

Spring

Delta Dental of Wisconsin Scholarship

The Delta Dental of Wisconsin Scholarship was established in 2015 to support Blackhawk students enrolled in the Dental Assisting or Dental Hygienist Programs.

Emma Beutin, Dental Assistant Mackenzie Byrne, Dental Hygienist Madyson Mitchell, Dental Assistant Stephanie Stettin, Dental Hygienist

Fall Spring Spring Fall

Diversity Scholarship

The Diversity Scholarship is awarded to students enrolled in any program at Blackhawk. The goal of this scholarship is to foster an environment that appreciates and values an increasingly diverse student body.

Lasonya Monroe, Nursing Erica Padilla, Nursing Julieta Rosales, Nursing Assistant Kyle Wohlust, Human Services Associate

Fall Fall Spring Spring

Dody Murray Memorial Scholarship

Established in 1990 by the friends and family of the late Dody Murray, this endowed scholarship supports Blackhawk students in their second year of the Nursing Program.

Dody was a registered nurse and was a native of Wisconsin.

Trevor Crawford Boyle, Nursing

Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Donna McKearn Memorial Endowed Scholarship

The Donna McKearn Memorial Endowed Scholarship was established in 2021 by the McKearn family and friends in memory Donna, their beloved mother, friend, and nurturer of all children for Blackhawk students in the Education or Business Programs.

Angela Cash, Foundations of Teacher Education Emma Pentecost, Early Childhood Education

Spring Fall

Dr. Gordon & Barbara Kronquist Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Dr. Gordon & Barbara Kronquist Memorial Endowed Scholarship was established in 2021 in Barbara's memory (a registered RN) by her husband, Dr. Gordon Kronquist, along with many family and friends. This scholarship is for students enrolled in any Health Science Program.

Haley Arneson, Radiography Fall Lauren Comella, Nursing Spring Kent Espinoza, Radiography Spring & Fall Emily Fish, Nursing Spring Gabrielle Hoffmann, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Spring

Draeger Family Scholarship

The Draeger Family Scholarship was established in 2021, in memory of their father, John Draeger, to support Blackhawk students in Manufacturing Programs.

John worked as a mechanical engineer for many years at Gilman Engineering & Manufacturing in Janesville and later became the President. He was always interested in encouraging young, aspiring engineers and contributing to the advancement of young people in the manufacturing field.

Ismael Cruz, Automation Systems Technology Marelvi Gaxhaj, Manufacturing Engineering Technology Rhiannon Katzenberg, Welding Caleb Rudnitzki, Individualized Technical Studies Devan Wallace, Electro-Mechanical Technology

Spring & Fall Spring Fall Fall Spring & Fall

Edward Jennrich Scholarship

Established in 2022 by Philip and Karen Knudsen, the Edward Jennrich Scholarship was established in honor and memory of Karen's late brother, Edward Jennrich. This full-ride scholarship is awarded to students enrolled in a Manufacturing Program.

Ismael Cruz, Automation Systems Technology Clarissa Grezka, Electro-Mechanical Technology

Fall Spring & Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Elizabeth Woodruff Scholarship

The Elizabeth Woodruff Charitable Trust established the Elizabeth Woodruff Scholarship in 2020 to award scholarship support to students that are enrolled in any program at Blackhawk.

Rebecca Barnett, Substance Abuse Disorder Counselor Brooke Barrington, Dental Hygienist

Fall Fall

Executive Chef Graham Erik Smith Memorial Culinary Endowed Scholarship Established in 2019 by Jackie Wood and Kelly Smith Moore, the Executive Chef Graham Erik Smith Memorial Culinary Endowed Scholarship is for a second-year student enrolled in the Culinary Arts Program. Executive Chef Graham Erik Smith was a renowned executive chef in Southern Wisconsin; and he loved being involved in chef competitions and mentoring culinary students.

Nicholas Risseeuw, Culinary Arts Gwendolyn VanDomelen, Culinary Arts

Spring Fall

Fire Protection Technician Scholarship

Established in June 2018, the Fire Protection Technician Scholarship provides a $600 award to support Blackhawk students pursuing a degree in the Fire Protection Technician program.

Callie Sweeney, Fire Protection Technician

Spring

Foreign Type Cheesemaker’s Association Scholarship

Started by the Foreign Type Cheesemaker's Association in 2018, this scholarship supports students enrolled in the Laboratory Food Sciences Program. Their mission is to assist cheese producers in making quality, safe, and wholesome products. They have recently rebranded themselves and operate now as Precision Biolabs.

Ahmed Abushaban, Laboratory Technician Assistant Stacy Jackson, Laboratory Food Science Technician Bjorn Unseth, Associate of Science

Fall Spring Spring

Francis and Barbara Stauner Memorial Scholarship

The Francis and Barbara Stauner Memorial Scholarship was established in 2007 to support Blackhawk students in any program.

Cassie Melton, Web Software Developer

Fall

Fred & Vera Jess Memorial Scholarship

The Jess Family established the Fred & Vera Jess Memorial Scholarship in 2015 in honor and remembrance of Fred & Vera Jess, residents of Rockford, Illinois, to support Blackhawk students in any program.

Marcus Evans, Hospitality Management

Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Freedom Plastics Scholarship

The Freedom Plastics Scholarship is provided through the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin to provide scholarship awards to students in any program.

Essi Ahiadjo, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Alexa Ciano, Accounting Madison Ebbert, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Kylie Elsner, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Josephine Kjeldgaard, Radiography Parker Loofboro, Criminal Justice Studies Mariah Moran, Nursing Meagan Shelton, Early Childhood Education

Spring Fall Fall Spring Fall Fall Spring Spring

Fund for the Future of Agriculture Scholarship

Established in 2019 by Fran and Sandy Donny and Jim and Therese Gratz, the Fund for the Future of Agriculture provides scholarship awards to students enrolled in Agriculture Programs at Blackhawk.

Breanna Brooks, Agribusiness/Science Technology Abraham Clark, Agribusiness/Science Technology Issa Conombo, Agribusiness/Science Technolog Trinity Dyreson, Agribusiness/Science Technolog Dyan Garrett, Agribusiness/Science Technology Erik Schultz, Agribusiness/Science Technology Jadah Wegmuller, Agribusiness/Science Technology

Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Fall

Fund for the Future of Manufacturing Scholarship

Established in 2021 and supported by several key community leaders and businesses, the Fund for the Future of Manufacturing provides scholarship awards to students enrolled in any Manufacturing Programs at Blackhawk.

Amber Basiks, Manufacturing Engineering Technology Amber Basiks, Manufacturing Engineering Technology Timothy Cunningham, Technical Studies - Journeyworker Baocheng Han, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Hayden Lutz, Electric Power Distribution Elias Rodriguez, Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Ryan Welte, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Jacob Wienke, Welding

Spring Fall Spring Spring Fall Fall Spring Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Gary Mawhinney Scholarship

Established in 2022 by Gary Mawhinney, a retiree of General Motors, this scholarship is awarded to students enrolled in a Manufacturing Program. Gary is passionate about manufacturing careers and opportunities provided to Blackhawk students as he understands the importance of those careers and the need for a trained workforce for the future success and growth of the manufacturing sector.

Amber Basiks, Manufacturing Engineering Tech Zachary Mangan, Welding Brieana Schroeder, Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician

Spring Spring Spring

Gene & Alice Fahrney Endowed Scholarship

Established in December 2023, the Gene & Alice Fahrney Endowed Scholarship provides financial support to students pursuing a manufacturing-related program at Blackhawk Technical College. One $500 scholarship will be awarded to a Blackhawk student every fall and spring semester.

Spencer Pumphrey, Electro-Mechanical Technology

Fall

Goodwill of Northern Illinois Scholarship

In 2012, Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois established this scholarship to support Blackhawk students with disabilities or special needs pursuing any program of study.

Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois is a community-based non-profit organization that creates opportunities for individuals with barriers to enhance their lives.

Courtney Tillman, Medical Administrative Coder

Spring & Fall

Hank Dikkeboom Memorial Tools Scholarship

In 2017, Mary Dikkeboom established the Hank Dikkeboom Memorial Tools Scholarship in memory of her husband, Hank, to support Blackhawk students with purchasing the necessary tools, materials, and supplies needed for their particular program. Hank, a former Blackhawk instructor for 29 years, developed the Automotive Repair curriculum for the college. He valued education and had a lifelong commitment to the skilled trades.

Tristen Alexander, Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician Michael Evers, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Owen Nenno, Automotive Technician Natasha Olson, Nursing

Fall Spring Fall Spring

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Harold Robb Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2022 by Dr. Gregg and Helen Dickinson, in memory of Harold Robb, an electrical engineer who served on many community organizations, one of which was the Rock River Charter School Board of Directors, this endowed scholarship is awarded to Rock River Charter School graduates who enroll at Blackhawk in any program of study at the college.

Marissa Drost, Nursing Charisse Johnson, Nursing

Fall Fall

Harry Sieren Memorial Scholarship

In 2021, the Harry Sieren Family established this memorial scholarship in memory of Harry, a small engine repair owner, to support Blackhawk students in the Automotive Technician or Diesel & Heavy Equipment Programs.

Owen Nenno, Automotive Technician Teygen Riley-Ochsner, Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician Jameson Runde, Automotive Technician Jorden Showers, Automotive Technician

Fall Fall Spring Spring

Harry Spohnholtz Memorial Scholarship

The Harry Spohnholtz Memorial Scholarship was established in 2008 in memory of Harry Spohnholtz, a former Wisconsin Power & Light electrician who retired in 1979, to provide scholarship support to Blackhawk students in any program.

Hailey Beeman, Nursing

Fall

Heartland Dental Endowed Scholarship

Established in November 2023 by Heartland Dental, which has grown from a small group of dedicated doctors to a network of over 2,400 dentists nationwide, this $500 scholarship is awarded each fall semester to one student enrolled in the Dental Hygiene program at Blackhawk Technical College.

Brooke Barrington, Dental Hygienist

Fall

Hufcor Scholarship

Established in 2019, the Hufcor Scholarship is provided through the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin to provide scholarship awards to non-traditional students enrolled in any program at Blackhawk.

Alicia Alvarado, Nursing Amanda Kalas, Human Services Associate Harjoy Kaur, Physical Therapist Assistant Natasha Olson, Nursing Angel Ramirez, Nursing

Spring Spring Spring Spring Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Hufcor Scholarship, cont'd

Laura Romo, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Audrey Rotzoll, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology María Troche Pérez, Human Services Associate

Fall Fall Fall

IDEAL Opportunity Scholarship

Created in 2020, the IDEAL Opportunity Scholarship is an intentional effort to increase access to education and transform the lives of persons of color who are low-income and may be first-generation college students. The full-ride scholarship is for students enrolled in either Automation Systems Technology, Criminal Justice, Electro-Mechanical Technology, or Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Programs. The scholarship also provides a cost of living stipend, a paid internship, and a designated faculty mentor.

Giovanni Aceves, Automation Systems Technology Maranda Mendiola, Electro-Mechanical Technology D'Angelo Vernon, Criminal Justice Studies

Spring & Fall Spring Fall

Joan Waier Memorial Endowed Scholarship

The Joan Waier Memorial Endowed Scholarship was established in memory of Joan M. Waier, born in Whitelaw, Wisconsin, by her beloved family members. This $500 scholarship provides financial support to one student each fall semester pursuing a Blackhawk degree in Agriculture, Business, Early Childhood Education, Associate of Science, Associate of Arts, or University Center Bachelor’s Degree Pathway program.

Britney Adams, Accounting

Fall

Jones Dairy Farm Culinary Scholarship

Established in March 2024 by Jones Dairy Farm, headquartered in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, the Jones Dairy Farm Culinary Scholarship awards $2,000 to a student pursuing a degree in Culinary Arts at Blackhawk Technical College each fall semester.

Brianna Griffith, Culinary Arts

Fall

JP Cullen Memorial Nursing Endowed Scholarship

The JP Cullen Memorial Nursing Endowed Scholarship was established in 2018 by the Cullen Family to honor their father, John Paul (JP) Cullen, who passed away in 2017. This endowed scholarship supports Blackhawk students enrolled in the Nursing Program.

John Paul (JP) Cullen was the grandson of John Patrick Cullen, founder of JP Cullen, a fifth-generation, family-owned construction business headquartered in Janesville.

Mariana Tinajero- Espinoza, Nursing Cassandra Weldy, Nursing

Spring Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Judy Meidl Memorial Scholarship

Brent Meidl established the Judy Meidl Memorial Scholarship in 2023 in honor of his mother, Judy Meidl, to support Blackhawk students in the Nursing Program. Judy was a registered nurse and longtime faculty member at Blackhawk Technical College in the Nursing Program.

Leighanne Humphreys, Nursing Nicole Lehr, Nursing

Spring Fall

Kelsea Anderson Memorial Scholarship

The Kelsea Anderson Memorial Scholarship was established in 2018 by OrthoIllinois in memory of Kelsea, a Physical Therapist Assistant Blackhawk alumna and valued OrthoIllinois team member, who tragically lost her life in a car accident on New Year's Day 2018. This scholarship supports students in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program.

Courtney Appelbaum, Physical Therapy Assistant

Fall

Kevin Pope Memorial Scholarship

Established in 2022 by Charles and Dawn Pope in memory of their son, Kevin Pope, a beloved chef at the Buckhorn Supper Club for over 22 years (and best broiler chefs in Southern Wisconsin), this memorial scholarship is awarded to a Blackhawk student each Fall semester who is enrolled in their second year of the Culinary Arts Program.

Gwendolyn VanDomelen, Culinary Arts

Fall

KUHN North America Scholarship

Established in 2015, the KUHN North America Scholarship provides support to Blackhawk students in the Welding and Computer Numeric Control (CNC) Technician Programs. KUHN North America, Inc., headquartered in Brodhead, Wisconsin, is a leading innovator in agricultural and industrial equipment.

Monique Addison, Computer Numeric Control Technician Brayden Bye, Welding Rhiannon Katzenberg, Welding Angel Escalera, Welding

Spring Fall Spring Fall

Lake Geneva Country Club Foundation Scholarship

Established in November 2023 by the Lake Geneva Country Club Foundation, this scholarship provides $2,000 each spring semester to one Blackhawk Technical College student pursuing a degree in Culinary Arts or Hospitality Management. The Foundation's mission is to support the education of Lake Geneva Country Club staff, their families, and other eligible recipients, helping to attract and retain qualified employees.

Emma Isham, Culinary Arts

Spring & Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Lois Jacobs Memorial Endowed Nursing Scholarship

The Lois Jacobs Estate established the scholarship in 2009 in honor of Lois Jacob, a registered nurse who dedicated her life to serving others. The scholarship supports Blackhawk students enrolled in their second year of the Nursing Program.

Marisa Mansfield, Nursing Kristin Prien, Nursing Tasha Zimmerman, Nursing

Fall Spring & Fall Spring

Lou Chalk Scholarship

The Lou Chalk Memorial Scholarship was established through several donations in memory of Lou Chalk, a veteran Blackhawk nursing faculty member who passed away in 2008. This scholarship is awarded to Blackhawk students in the Nursing Program.

Trevor Crawford Boyle, Nursing Mariah Moran, Nursing

Fall Spring

Mark A. Stuckey Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Established in November 2023 by Tammy Stuckey in memory of her husband, Mark A. Stuckey, this scholarship is awarded each fall and spring semester to a Blackhawk student pursuing a degree in HVAC/R or Industrial Maintenance Mechanic. Mark, a Blackhawk alumnus who passed away in October 2023, served as a lab assistant in the HVAC/R department and worked part-time maintenance at the College.

Michael Evers, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Spring Kenneth Hernandez, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Fall

Mercyhealth - Making Lives Better - Scholarship

Created in 2022 by Mercyhealth, these full-ride scholarships support Blackhawk students enrolled in Nursing, Radiography, Surgical Technology, Culinary Arts, or Phlebotomy Technician Programs. Mercyhealth is a non-profit healthcare system that operates with over 85 facilities serving a total of 55 communities throughout Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois.

Michael Duran, Nursing McKenzie Gray, Surgical Tech Adrianna Herrera, Radiography Gigi Jarrett, Nursing Lynn Langer, Surgical Tech Emily Roessler, Culinary Arts Linh Trinh, Radiography Samantha Whitley, Phlebotomy Technician

Spring & Fall Spring Spring & Fall Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Mielke Memorial Scholarship

The Mielke Memorial Endowed Scholarship supports students enrolled in any program of study at Blackhawk Technical College.

Rachel Belanger, Human Services Associate Andrea Christianson, Associate of Science Marcus Evans, Hospitality Management Graciella Hernandez, Nursing Mckayla Mackey, Nursing Meghan Rule, Digital Marketing Melysa Stutika, Digital Marketing Gavin Vogel, Electric Power Distribution

Spring Spring Fall Spring Spring Fall Fall Fall

Nancy B. Parker Nursing Scholarship

George Parker III established the Nancy B. Parker Scholarship in 2018 in memory of his mother, Nancy Bauhan Parker, who served as a Mercy Hospital trustee for ten years as she held strong convictions about the care and compassion that nurses deliver to their patients and families. Along with the Parker Family Foundation and other committed healthcare organizations and community members in this region, a $1 million dollar scholarship to support Blackhawk students in the Nursing Program was created.

Dakhia Crawford, Nursing Valerie Diaz, Nursing Jessica Erickson, Nursing Angel Hayward, Nursing Kristen Lee, Nursing Lasonya Monroe, Nursing Nicole Noyce, Nursing Heather Outland, Nursing Melanie Schmidt, Nursing Brooklyn Schultz, Nursing Cheyenne Stewart, Nursing Courtney Vidmar, Nursing Cassandra Weldy, Nursing

Spring Spring & Fall Spring & Fall Spring Spring & Fall Spring & Fall Spring & Fall Spring & Fall Spring Fall Spring Spring Spring & Fall

Philip & Karen Knudsen Scholarship

Established in March 2024 by Philip & Karen Knudsen, this full-ride scholarship is awarded each fall semester to one student pursuing a degree in Agriculture at Blackhawk Technical College.

Jackson Boatman, Agribusiness/Science Technology

Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Pregont Family Foundation Scholarship

Established in the Fall of 2023 by Joe and Tina Pregont and their children, Rachel, Joseph, and Michael, the Pregont Family Foundation Scholarship reflects the family's commitment to philanthropy. This full-ride scholarship is awarded each fall semester to one student pursuing a degree in Automation Systems Technology, CNC Technician, Information Technology, Electro-Mechanical Technology, or Manufacturing Engineering Technology at Blackhawk Technical College.

Preston Krauss, IT - Technical Support Specialist

Fall

Rivertown Dental Scholarship

Established in October 2023 by Rivertown Dental, headquartered in La Crosse, Wisconsin, the Rivertown Dental Scholarship provides $500 each fall and spring semester to support students pursuing a career in Dental Hygiene at Blackhawk Technical College.

Jacob Ballard, Dental Hygienist Abigail Bauer, Dental Hygienist

Fall Spring

Saving Lives Everyday Scholarship

Bill Tierney and Valerie Nehls established the Saving Lives Everyday Scholarship through the Madison Community Foundation in 2022 to support to students in the Paramedic, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), or Healthcare Programs. Due to Bill and Valerie's professional careers in the EMS and first responder arenas, they are strong healthcare advocates and dedicated supporters of their communities.

Ava Beckwith, Radiography Lorena Guarneros Moron, Surgical Tech

Fall Spring

Sergeant (Sgt.) Don Doering Vocational Scholarship

The Sergeant Don Doering Vocational Scholarship supports students enrolled in the Welding Program at Blackhawk. It was established in 2019 by Sgt. Don Doering, a native of Janesville, who proudly served his country in the Vietnam War. Cayden Derhasen, Welding Evan Ellis, Welding Brenna Pearson, Welding Demitri Rodriguez, Welding

Fall Spring Fall Spring

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Stateline Manufacturing Alliance Scholarship

Established in 2023 by the Stateline Manufacturing Alliance (SMA), this scholarship provides support to students enrolled in Blackhawk's Manufacturing Programs.

The SMA is a collaborative and engaged stakeholder group comprised of regional manufacturers, educators, and community partners that are committed to collectively addressing and supporting the youth and adult talent pipeline development needs of manufacturers.

Elizabeth Baron, Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Amber Basiks, Manufacturing Engineering Technology Angel Escalera, Welding Jordon Peterson, Electro-Mechanical Technology

Fall Fall Fall Fall

Storage Haus Scholarship

Established in 2016, the Storage Haus Scholarship supports Green County students enrolled at Blackhawk's Monroe Campus in their endeavor to pursue an education with the College. For over 20 years, Storage Haus has been a locally-owned and operated total self-storage solution company with locations in Monroe and New Glarus.

Breanna Brooks, Agribusiness/Science Technology Chanda Weide, Medical Laboratory Technician

Spring Fall

Sue Farrey Pride Memorial Scholarship

Leonard J. Behnke, along with Sue's surviving family, established the Sue Farrey Pride Memorial Scholarship in 2023, in memory of his Aunt Sue. This scholarship provides support to the LGBTQ+ community and ally students in any program of study at Blackhawk. Sue was a very involved ally to the LGBTQ+ community in Iowa and Wisconsin and supported and respected everyone in their life choices.

Kassandra Arnold, Surgical Technology Jared Funk, Culinary Production Specialist

Fall Fall

Ted Jappert - Briggs Realty Group, Inc. Scholarship

Ted Jappert, a local realtor and a Blackhawk Industrial Engineering alumnus, established the Ted Jappert - Briggs Realty Group, Inc. Scholarship in 2023 to provide support to Blackhawk students enrolled in Manufacturing Programs. Ted is passionate about helping Blackhawk students find their pathway to success.

Jacob Wienke, Welding

Fall

The Literacy Connection's Adult Literacy Endowed Scholarship

Established by The Literacy Connection, a former non-profit organization from Janesville, Wisconsin, this scholarship advances adult literacy initiatives at Blackhawk Technical College. One $500 scholarship is awarded each fall semester to a GED graduate student enrolled in any program at the college.

Kenneth Baker, Culinary Arts

Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

The Nightingale Scholarship

Established in May 2024 by an anonymous donor, The Nightingale Scholarship provides $1,000 each fall semester to support one student enrolled in the Nursing program at Blackhawk Technical College.

Jocelinn Portillo, Nursing

Fall

Tracy Family Scholarship

In honor of the family's agricultural business history along with Judith Tracy's lifelong nursing career, the Tracy Family Scholarship was created in 2022 by her son, Josh Tracy, for students enrolled in Blackhawk's Agriculture and Nursing Programs.

Rebecca Cahill, Nursing Abraham Clark, Agribusiness/Science Technology Trevor Crawford Boyle, Nursing Stephanie Cuevas, Nursing Dyan Garrett, Agribusiness/Science Technology Jada Kletzke, Agribusiness/Science Technology Jadah Wegmuller, Agribusiness/Science Technology

Fall Fall Fall Fall Spring Fall Fall

Violet Radel Memorial Nursing Scholarship

Blackhawk Technical College faculty members established the Violet Radel Memorial Nursing Scholarship in 1986 in memory of Violet, a nursing faculty colleague of Mercy Hospital School of Nursing, to support Blackhawk students in the Nursing Program.

Jamie Rudolph, Nursing

Spring

Wayne and Janet Albertson Endowed Scholarship

Wayne and Janet Albertson established their endowed scholarship in 2021 to provide support to Blackhawk students in the Agriculture Program. A life-long commitment to operating their three-generation family farm combined with their passion to support the youth talent pipeline of the agricultural industry, they are dedicated to giving back and seeing the industry succeed.

Monica Reif, Agribusiness/Science Technology Leslie Reinke, Agribusiness/Science Technology

Fall Spring

Weirich Family Scholarship

Established in April 2024 by Beloit residents and Beloit Memorial High School alumni Michelle and Anthony Weirich, this scholarship awards $500 each fall and spring semester to a Beloit Memorial High School graduate enrolled in an Education-related program at Blackhawk Technical College.

Maria Almaraz-Ruvalcaba, Early Childhood Education

Fall

Spring & Fall 2024 Scholarship Recipients

Wes Story Memorial Scholarship

Established by the Story Family, this endowed memorial scholarship honors Wes Story and provides support to Blackhawk students in the Criminal Justice Program.

Brianna Jacobs, Criminal Justice Studies Destiny Maier, Criminal Justice Studies

Spring Fall

William J. Wartmann Memorial Endowed Scholarship

The William J. Wartmann Trust established this endowed scholarship in memory of William Wartmann upon his passing in 2018 to support Blackhawk students pursuing any program of study at the College. Both William and his wife, Joyce, were strong supporters of education.

Kelli Aide, Medical Administrative Coder Sharon Nouansacksy, Associate of Science Jazzlyn Pulido, Nursing Emanuel Rojas, Criminal Justice Studies

Fall Fall Spring Spring

Wini Babler Memorial Scholarship

The Babler Family established the Wini Babler Memorial Scholarship to support Blackhawk students in the Nursing or Nursing Assistant Programs. Winifred graduated from Monroe High School in 1937, attended Carroll College, and worked at the Monroe Clinic as one of its first receptionists.

Breanna Santiago, Nursing

Fall

The Blackhawk Technical College FOUNDATION

COINS FOR CARING

34%*

45%*

WISCONSIN HOUSEHOLDS

COLLEGE STUDENTS

are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE)

in Rock County are food insecure and in need of help

2023 COINS FOR CARING

2024 COINS FOR CARING

$11,026

$9,300

in assistance for gas, food, health, rent, utility & childcare

in assistance for gas, food, health, rent, utility & childcare

68%

Awards used for transportation

32%

Awards used for food insecurity

57%

Awards used for transportation

CONNECT LISA HURDA, Director of Advancement & Foundation (608) 757-7704 | Lhurda@blackhawk.edu

43%

Awards used for food insecurity

With Us LENNY BEHNKE, College Advancement Assistant

DONATE

(608) 743-4452 | Lbehnke@blackhawk.edu *Statistics are from ALICE REPORT, 2020-2023, United Way.

Now

WHO

We Are The Blackhawk Foundation is the bridge between the generosity of donors (community supporters, alumni, and businesses) to our students, faculty, and the College by providing resources necessary to make college possible for all.

The Foundation Team consists of Lisa Hurda, Director of College Advancement & Foundation, and Lenny Behnke, College Advancement & Foundation Assistant.

WHAT

We Do

The Blackhawk Foundation

provides student assistance through scholarships and emergency assistance awards as well as through investment in facilities and resources that enable student success.

The Blackhawk Foundation accepts in-kind donations from area businesses on behalf of the College. In fiscal year 2024, the Foundation accepted $74,596 of in-kind gifts, including necessary technology and supplies for our manufacturing and medical programs of study.

CONNECT With Us Lisa Hurda, M. Ed.

Director of College Advancement & Foundation (608) 757-7704 Lhurda@blackhawk.edu

Lenny Behnke

College Advancement Assistant (608) 743-4452 Lbehnke@blackhawk.edu

Thank You Sponsors!

Title Sponsor

Partner Sponsors