UW Receives $20M Gift, One of Its Largest Ever

A $20 million gift announced during the University of Wyoming's commencement ceremony on May 16 will transform the lives of hundreds of students for years to come.

Carol Tomé, CEO of UPS, made the stunning announcement while serving as the university's commencement speaker. The donation ranks among the largest in UW's history and will fund full-ride scholarships for more than 100 students.

The announcement capped off a banner year for Wyoming education, with students and educators across the state celebrating achievements both inside and outside the classroom. In Natrona County alone, 95 students received recognition at the annual awards banquet, where top seniors from each high school honor the teachers who changed their lives.

Two Kelly Walsh High School students, Morgan DeStefano and Madison Schroefel, took first place at the Wyoming History Day competition with projects exploring women's rights and the Violence Against Women Act. Six district students earned gold medals at the Wyoming SkillsUSA tournament and advanced to nationals.

The University of Wyoming's debate team delivered its best performance in years at national tournaments, winning honors at both the National Debate Tournament and the Cross-Examination Debate Association National Tournament. Ten UW students also received the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship from the U.S. Department of State, averaging around $10,000 each.

The Ripple Effect

These achievements represent more than individual success stories. They show what's possible when communities invest in education and recognize excellence.

Thirteen Natrona County school employees reached 25 years of service this year, while more than 30 educators stepped into well-earned retirements. Their decades of dedication created the foundation for today's student success.

Superintendent Angela Hensley captured the spirit perfectly: "At its core, education is the most powerful tool we have to shape minds, build futures, and strengthen communities." The educators retiring this year leave behind a legacy that will guide learners for generations.

The $20 million gift from Tomé ensures that legacy continues, opening doors for students who might otherwise struggle to afford college. When combined with Wyoming's other educational wins this spring, it paints a picture of a state investing in its future through the power of learning.

From history competitions to debate tournaments to transformative scholarships, Wyoming students proved this year that opportunity plus support equals extraordinary achievement.