Scholars + Donors Celebration 2025

BLACKHAWK TECHNICAL COLLEGE FOUNDATION

Tuesday, September 16, 2025 | 8-9:30 a.m.

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

Partner Sponsor

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 Lake Ridge Bank

Laura Cullen JP Cullen

Kara Sankey Mercyhealth

Dr. Gregg Dickinson Janesville Pediatric Dental (Retired)

Angela Slagle Frito-Lay/PepsiCo

Jeff Garde Combs & Associates

Gina Erickson Community Member

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

Suzann Holland, Treasurer Monroe Public Library

Rachel Andres Prent Corporation

Mark Holzman Janesville School District

Robert Hendrickson PepsiCo/Frito-Lay

Dave Marshick First National Bank and Trust Company Kathy Sukus Rock County Communications (Retired)

— September 16, 2025 — Welcome

Dr. Tracy Pierner

President, Blackhawk Technical College Dave Holterman

President, Foundation Board of Directors President, First Community Bank of Milton Cassie Hartje

Director, Advancement and Foundation

Student Reflection Monica Reif

Agribusiness, Science & Technology Student 2025-2026 Scholarship Recipient

A Donor’s Perspective Brent Meidl

Judy Meidl Memorial Scholarship Donor

Student Reflection Randy Gonzales

Electromechanical Student 2025-2026 Scholarship Recipient

Closing Remarks Cassie Hartje

Director, Advancement and Foundation

Optional Tours

Meet at the check-in table if you would like a tour

Spring & Fall 2025 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.

Ryan Haffelder, Electric Power Distribution Kory Jiskra, Electric Power Distribution Holly Kynell, Electric Power Distribution Colten Kieliszewski, Electric Power Distribution Andrew Pollock, Electric Power Distribution Francisco Roque, Electric Power Distribution Luke Runde, Electric Power Distribution

Spring Spring Fall Spring Spring Fall Spring

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.

Makenna Schooff, Dental Hygienist

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.

Faith Traynor, Agribusiness, Science & Technology

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 Jade Porter, Medical Laboratory Technician

Spring Spring

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

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.

Ava Kuester, Criminal Justice Studies

Fall

B & G Foods

Established in 2025 B & G Foods generously chose to provide support to a student enrolled or will be enrolling in a manufacturing program at Blackhawk Technical College.

Reid Williams, Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

Fall

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.

Sydney Tokach, 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.

Julia Brooks, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Brooke Curfman, Nursing Isaiah Gibbs, Criminal Justice Studies Anthony Hess, Industrial Maintenance Mechanic, Reid Williams, Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Dylan Yurs, Electro-Mechanical Technology

Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall 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.

Samuel Schwengels, Culinary Arts

Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

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.

Alexa Betancourt, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Maxwell Brooks, Business Management Carly Coomer, Radiography Leyton Davies, Electric Power Distribution Drew Freitag, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Dylan Goodwin, Welding Beyonce Jimenez-Aranda, Dental Assistant Bethany Johnson, Radiography Kyla Miller, Nursing Miracle Minnion, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Makayla Morales, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Natalie Olson, Culinary Arts America Osorio Lopez, Early Childhood Education Leon Parker, Welding Americus Pomplun, Nursing Rhilyn Sanftleben, Nursing Madeline Schulz, Early Childhood Education Hutcher Schwartz, Automotive Technician Emma Scott, Nursing Matthew Setterstrom, IT Technical Support Specialist Jack Smith, Undeclared Ava Wehrli, Fire Protection Technician Kaitlyn Williams, Phlebotomy Technician Kiara Yanzapanta, Criminal Justice Studies Katie Zettle, Business Management

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

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

Blackhawk Foundation Scholarship

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

Jacob Ballard, Dental Hygienist Jesus Francisco-Martinez, Criminal Justice Studies Briannah Lamasters, Criminal Justice Studies Precious Ohre, Nursing-Pre Clinical Jacinta Pina, Radiography Pre Clinical Siobhan Rung, Business Management Brooklyn Schultz, Nursing Callie Sweeney, Fire Protection Technician Markese Terrell, Human Services Payton Teubert, Dental Hygienist Pre Clinical Amy Thomas, Dental Hygienist Pre Clinical William Toles, Automotive Technician Jenna White, DMS/VT Pre Clinical

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

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.

Wendy Flores, Automotive Technician Lillian Noble, Early Childhood Education

Spring Fall

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.

Mitchell Stuessy, Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician Zofia Lencho, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology

Spring Fall

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 Michael Valdivia, Business Management

Fall Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

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.

Andrew Jefferson, Welding Fabrication & Robotics

Fall

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.

Ivan Acosta, Welding Spring Preston Fadness, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Tech (HVAC/R) Fall Landon Hahn, Air Cond, Heating & Refrigeration Technology Fall Timothy Sphatt, Air Cond, Htg & Refrig Technology Spring

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.

Leighanne Humphreys, Nursing Abigail Rudnitzki, Nursing

Fall Fall

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.

Ryan Hammer, IT – Technical Support Specialist Cassie Melton, Web Software Developer James Sexton,Web Software Developer

Spring Spring & Fall 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.

Hailey Hoffman, Agribusiness, Science & Technology Monica Reif, Agribusiness, Science & Technology

Fall Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

Corby Bell Scholarship

Established in 2019 by Corby Bell, a Blackhawk Culinary Arts alumnus, this scholarship is awarded to Blackhawk students enrolled in the Culinary Program.

Alaina Wilder, Culinary Arts

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.

Yiana Nelson, Culinary Arts Analeecia Ransom, Culinary Arts

Fall Fall

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.

Josalyn Gosda, Business Management Michael Harrell, Medical Administrative Coder Lucas Oswalt, Digital Marketing Bella Wallace, Business Management

Fall Spring Spring Fall

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.

Connor David, Electric Power Distribution

Fall

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.

Natalia Castillo Perez, Dental Assistant Kaylin Dilley, Dental Hygienist Lisset Jimenez, Dental Hygienist

Spring Fall Spring

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

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.

Tristen Alexander, Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician Yadira Barrales-Flores, Early Childhood Education Juan Casas, IT - Technical Support Specialist Marcus Evans, Hospitality Management Brianna Jacobs, Criminal Justice Studies Jaydyn Relerford-Davidson, Nursing Yessenia Tello, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology

Spring Spring Fall Spring Fall Fall Fall

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.

Ginger Probst, Nursing

Fall

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.

Eva Urish, Foundations of Teacher Education

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.

Jolie Hughes, Nursing Sha’Dymond Marshall, Nursing

Spring Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

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.

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

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 Randy Gonzales, Electro-Mechanical Technology

Fall Fall

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.

Rylee Crull, Radiography Gabrielle Smith, Medical Laboratory Technician

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.

Savanna Anderson, Culinary Arts Aria Clark, Culinary Arts

Fall 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.

Mary-Ann Cliffe, Laboratory Food Science Technician

Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

Forte’ Next Gen Scholarship

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

Taylor Cahill, Associate of Science

Fall

Francis and Barbara Stauner Memorial Scholarship

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

Rebeccah Hansen, Digital Marketing

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.

Marcela Castillo, Sterile Processing Technician

Fall

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.

Joel Aguilar-Paredes, Welding Fabrication & Robotics Mary-Ann Cliffe, Lab Technician Assistant Erin Cummings, Foundations of Teacher Education Nena Helms, Foundations of Teacher Education Kyla Ingraham, Nursing Pre Clinical Rebecca Jordon, Surgical Technology Wyatt Marshall, Agribusiness, Science & Technology Harley Monyak, Associate of Science

Fall Spring Spring Fall Spring Fall Spring Fall

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.

Abraham Clark, Agribusiness, Science & Technology Manuel De La Rosa Ramirez, Lab Technician Assistant Lillian Hoffman, Agribusiness, Science & Technology Jada Kletzke, Agribusiness, Science & Technology Wyatt Marshall, Agribusiness, Science & Technology

Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

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.

Kendalynn Behne, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Leonte Hughes, Automotive Technician Aidan Humphres, Welding Joyce Jewell, Welding Christina Johnson, CNC Technician Timothy Sphatt, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Gavin Stuck, Electric Power Distribution Ryan Welte, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology

Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring 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.

Carlos Garcia- Cortes, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Spring Logan Gough, Electric Power Distribution 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.

Emily Nguyen, Surgical Technology Beth Willger, Human Services

Fall Spring

Growmark Foundation Scholarship

Started in 2016, the GROWMARK Scholarship is for students enrolled in an Agriculture Program at Blackhawk.

Bradley Riechers, Agribusiness, Science & Technology

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.

Jolie Hughes, Nursing Mira Harris, Culinary Arts Kaycee Wedig, Dental Hygienist

Spring Fall Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 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.

Kendalynn Behne, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Marlene Romero, Business Management

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, Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician Teygen Riley-Ochsner, Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician

Fall Fall

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.

Destiny Cunningham, 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.

Riley Runkel, 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.

Sierra Banda, Radiography Pre Clinical Trishna Bholai, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Korin Carter-Straight, Nursing Pre Clinical Kathleen Lashley, Nursing Holly Purnell, Medical Administrative Specialist Amber Rice, Human Resources

Spring Fall Spring Fall Fall Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

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.

D'Angelo Vernon, Criminal Justice Studies

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.

Alexis Olson, Foundations of Teacher Education

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.

Lillian Mcmahon, 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.

Megan Coakley, Nursing Ginger Probst, Nursing

Fall Spring

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.

Karlee Dunham, Nursing

Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

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.

Eric Pearson, Physical Therapist 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.

Jasmyn Vera, Culinary Arts

Fall

Knudsen Agriculture Scholarship

Phil and Karen Knudsen established the Knudsen Agriculture Scholarship to support students pursuing agriculture-related programs. They are especially proud to support a continuation of studies for a second-year student.

Alexandra Bittner, Agribusiness, Science & Technology Carly Dodge, Agribusiness, Science & Technology Wyatt Marshall, Agribusiness, Science & Technology

Fall Fall 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.

Matthew Lampe, Welding Brent Livieri, Welding

Spring 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 Samuel Schwengels, Culinary Arts

Spring Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 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.

Samantha Bair, Nursing Erin Francois, Nursing Pre Clinical Kyla Miller, Nursing Tanya Pitman, 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.

Mariah Moran, Nursing Dionne Pugh, Nursing Pre Clinical

Spring Spring

Magnus & Mary Dyrdal 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 Jada Kletzke, Agribusiness, Science & Technology

Fall Fall

Mark A. Stuckey Memorial Endowed Scholarship

The Mark A. Stuckey Memorial Endowed Scholarship was created in loving memory of Mark Stuckey by his wife, Tammy Stuckey. Mark was a Blackhawk graduate with a degree in HVAC/R and Industrial Maintenance and held a part-time maintenance position as well as lab assistant position at the college.

Michael Evers, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Spring Baocheng Han, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Spring Kenneth Hernandez, Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Fall Benjamin Yoder, Heating and Refrigeration Technology Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

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 Assistant Jolie Hughes, Nursing Gigi Jarrett, Nursing Lindsey O'Connor, Nursing

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

Mielke Memorial Scholarship

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

Abigail Anderson, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Alexander Basilio Alejandro, Radiography Pre Clinical Marissa Brassell, Early Childhood Education Grace Brown, Dental Hygienist Pre Clinical Haylee Casper, DMS/VT Pre Clinical Lauren Chester, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Brianna Corell, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology Shaylin Foster, Criminal Justice Studies Kathryn Klassy, Radiography Christopher Prochaska, Substance Use Disorder Counselor Brianna Zepeda, Nursing Assistant

Fall Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Fall Spring Fall Spring 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.

Alicia Alvarado, Nursing Sarah Bowman, Nursing Hannah Johnson, Nursing Elyssa Stichauf, Nursing

Fall Fall Fall Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 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.

Nathan Storey, Electro-Mechanical Technology

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.

Abigail Bauer, Dental Hygienist Tove Westermeyer, Dental Hygienist

Spring Fall

Robert Waier Memorial Endowed Scholarship

The Robert Waier Memorial Endowed Scholarship has been created in honor and memory of Robert Waier, affectionately known as Bob. Bob worked as a Sheriff Deputy for the Rock County Sherriff Office and was an avid community supporter. This scholarship honors and reflects his commitment to service.

Martha Trujillo-Ocana, Criminal Justice Studies

Fall

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

Fall

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. Ivan Acosta, Welding Fabrication & Robotics Jacob Burkhamer, Welding

Fall Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 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.

Jalen Beauregard, Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Dylan Goodwin, Welding Corbin Kersten, Automation Systems Technology Spencer Pumphrey, Electro-Mechanical Technology Tyler Schmoll, Manufacturing Engineering Technology

Fall Fall Fall Fall 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.

Dakota Walker, Diagnostic Medical Sonography & Vascular Technology

Fall

TechForward Initiative

The TechForward Initiative builds on Blackhawk’s Mechatronics program curriculum by integrating four work-based learning courses that utilize an automated manufacturing cell at Blackhawk’s new Innovative Manufacturing Education Center. Students selected for the TechForward Scholarship are participating in a study designed to better understand learning models that will equip them with the skills needed to land highpaying jobs in fields like mechatronics, engineering, and maintenance.

Jalen Beauregard, Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Giara Casiano, Automation Systems Technology Riley Coddington, Automation Systems Technology Fydelmar Delgado, Automation Systems Technology Kiley Jacobs, Electro-Mechanical Technology Corbin Kersten, Automation Systems Technology Diego Mendoza, Electro-Mechanical Technology Jacob Shawver, Electro-Mechanical Technology Loki Underwood, Electro-Mechanical Technology Michael Wolf, Automation Systems Technology Dylan Yurs, Electro-Mechanical Technology Kevin Zaragoza, Electro-Mechanical Technology

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

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

Ted Jappert Scholarship

Ted Jappert, Blackhawk Industrial Engineering alumnus, established the Ted Jappert 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.

Brent Livieri, 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 Layla Presley, Surgical Technology

Spring Fall

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.

Tayla Hernandez Velazquez, Nursing

Fall

The 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, The Storage Haus has been a locally-owned and operated total self-storage solution company with locations in Monroe and New Glarus.

Tess Bushaw, Surgical Tech Pre Clinical Alyse Cahoon, Diagnostic Medical Sonography

Spring 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.

Jack Boston, Agribusiness, Science & Technology Hailey Hoffman, Agribusiness, Science & Technology Sarah Knowles, Nursing Jocelinn Portillo, Nursing Latrice Pritchard, Nursing Olivia Wolter, Agribusiness, Science & Technology

Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

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.

Sekpona Kouwoaye, 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.

Shawn Houfe, Agribusiness, Science & Technology

Fall

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 the Early Childhood or Childcare Services programs at Blackhawk Technical College.

Brittany King, Foundations of Teacher Education Briannah Lamasters, Criminal Justice Studies Michelle Mejia, Early Childhood Education Emma Pentecost, Early Childhood Education

Spring Spring Fall Fall

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.

Evanthia Koulouri, Criminal Justice Studies Parker Loofboro, Criminal Justice Studies

Spring Fall

Spring & Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

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.

Ava Beckwith, Radiography Jayla Thomas, Nursing Jada Anderson, Dental Hygienist Pre Clinical Samantha Bair, Nursing Makenna Barry, Human Resources Brittany Beksel, Dental Hygienist Pre Clinical Kai Bickham, Associate of Science Leeanna Brugger, Nursing Pre Clinical Kaci Burner, Nursing Pre Clinical Jake Hansen, Fire Protection Technician Patricia Hayes, Nursing Mia Henson, Early Childhood Education Kaelyn Johnson, Nursing Pre Clinical Katie Jones, Early Childhood Education Montacia Jones, Nursing Pre Clinical Brooke Kilcullen, Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician Erica King, Nursing Josie Kjeldgaard, Radiography Kamiliah Kolthoff, Foundations of Teacher Education Marissa Lehman, Business Management Breanna Moe, Dental Hygienist Pre Clinical Lindsey O'Connor, Nursing Paris Olson, Dental Hygienist Pre Clinical Eric Pearson, Physical Therapist Assistant Shanelle Roberson, Nursing Pre Clinical Juan Romero, Nursing Pre Clinical Gabrielle Smith, Medical Laboratory Technician Jessica Whitmore, Nursing Pre Clinical Ja’Shiyah Young, Associate of Science

Fall Fall Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring 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.

Josefina Slack, Nursing Pre-Clinical

Fall

The Blackhawk Technical College FOUNDATION

COINS FOR CARING 2025-26 COINS FOR CARING Year-to-Date (July 1-Sept. 10, 2025)

35%*

$3,153

WISCONSIN HOUSEHOLDS are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE)

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

28

2023-24 COINS FOR CARING

$9,460

Students received help

2024-25 COINS FOR CARING

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

89 Students received help

$10,684 in assistance for gas, food, health, rent, utility & childcare

CONNECT

With Us

CASSIE HARTJE, Director, Advancement & Foundation (608) 757-7704 | chartje1@blackhawk.edu REBEKAH PHILLIPS, College Advancement & Foundation Assistant (608) 743-4452 | rphillips13@blackhawk.edu *Statistics are from ALICE REPORT, 2020-2023, United Way.

82

Students received help

SCAN

To Support Blackhawk Students