Wisconsin Grocery Chain Funds New $1K Business Scholarship

A Wisconsin grocery chain is investing in the next generation of business leaders with a scholarship that will support local students for years to come.

Hy-Vee announced it will fund a new annual $1,000 Hy-Vee Award for Ripon High School seniors pursuing business degrees or related fields. The award launches during the Ripon Education Foundation's scholarship drive, running April 13 through 17.

The grocery chain joins several major donors stepping up this year. Alliance Laundry Systems, construction company ICON National, and the Friends of the Ripon Public Library have all made lead gifts to support graduating seniors.

One contribution carries special meaning for the community. A Ripon High School graduate has donated funds to establish the Margaret R. Klapperich Scholarship for Fine Arts, honoring the longtime art teacher who mentored students until her retirement in 1998.

The new fine arts scholarship will support students pursuing visual arts and related fields. A charter donation will establish an endowment, ensuring the award continues indefinitely.

The Ripple Effect

Last year, the foundation awarded $46,500 in scholarships to dozens of graduating seniors pursuing everything from technical certificates to four-year degrees. The money helps reduce financial barriers for students across Ripon Area School District.

This year's drive features four scholarship programs. The Merit Scholarship, established over 20 years ago, awards four students $2,000 each based on academic achievement and community involvement.

The Initiative Scholarship, created in 2022, gives $1,000 to a student who has overcome significant obstacles. Faculty members nominate candidates who demonstrate perseverance and future potential. The award renews for up to four years.

A brand-new Education Scholarship recognizes future teachers with $2,000, renewable for four years. The foundation created this award to support students entering pre-K through 12th grade education careers.

Community members can donate online at the foundation's website or through Facebook and Instagram. Donors can designate gifts to specific scholarships or contribute to the general fund supporting all students.

Every dollar helps a graduating senior move closer to their educational and career goals, creating a brighter future for the entire Ripon community.