UW-Platteville alumni couple Arlen and Jelayne Ewers create scholarship for future educators
UW-Platteville is proud to announce a generous gift from alumni Arlen Ewers ’62 and Jelayne Ewers ‘62, who have established the Arlen and Jelayne Ewers Scholarship to support students pursuing degrees in education.
The endowed scholarship will provide financial assistance to undergraduate students majoring in education, helping to prepare the next generation of teachers and educational leaders. The gift reflects the couple’s deep commitment to empowering future educators and strengthening communities through access to quality education.
The scholarship will provide $1,000 for students from southwestern Wisconsin, focusing largely on students from Richland Center and surrounding communities. The scholarship will be available to freshmen, continuing students and transfer students.
“Our reason for wanting to make this scholarship available stems from the desire to assist a qualified student from our hometown, if possible, with the initial boost towards a college education,” the donors said.
Arlen and Jelayne both graduated in 1962 with degrees in industrial technology & elementary education. They credit their academic experiences and mentorship at UW-Platteville as key to their personal and professional success. Their gift is intended to remove financial barriers and encourage talented students to pursue careers in teaching, particularly at a time when the need for dedicated educators remains strong.
“We are deeply grateful to Arlen & Jelayne for their incredible generosity and vision,” said Bridget Wallace, Executive Director of UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association. “This scholarship will have a lasting impact on our education students, allowing them to focus on their studies and prepare for meaningful careers in the classroom and beyond.”
The establishment of this endowed fund underscores the vital role alumni play in advancing UW-Platteville’s mission and supporting student success.
About the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association: Gifts from alumni, friends, parents, corporations and foundations help the University of Wisconsin-Platteville uphold its tradition of educational excellence—benefiting today’s students and future generations. Contributions through the UW-Platteville Foundation fund scholarships, strengthen academic programs, support capital projects and enhance campus life.