MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – More than $4 million was gifted to Madison College to support scholarship funds for students, the college announced Monday.
The Frautschi Family Pathway Scholarship Fund was created in 2022 thanks to a $1 million gift from W. Jerome Frautschi, the college explained.
The new $4.5 million donation, which is the largest non-capital contribution in the college’s history, will further support students with the greatest financial need.
Madison College President Dr. Jennifer Berne expressed her gratitude towards the Frautschi family for the donation.
“This gift has significant power,” Berne says. “It removes the upfront barrier of cost, which we know is a deciding factor in whether someone pursues higher education, and it stays with students across four semesters, helping them stay enrolled and finish what they start. These barriers are rarely one-time events, so to have a scholarship that recognizes and responds to that reality is essential — and quite literally life-changing.”
Since the creation of the Frautschi Family Pathway Scholarship Fund, Madison College said 187 students have been trained in the skills necessary to pursue successful, meaningful careers.
Frautschi and his family have been longtime supporters of Madison College. The Madison College Foundation Legacy Society is named in honor of Emil Frautschi, Jerome’s grandfather, who believed a technical school education could uplift individuals and the community.
“Madison College has been an invaluable asset to our community for over 100 years, educating our parents, siblings, and children. We fully support its mission to enhance the lives of residents,” Frautschi said. “We wish success for those who will benefit from the fund, knowing that the pursuit of higher education, combined with hard work, leads to a fulfilling life.”
With support from Frautschi, his family, and other donors, the Madison College Foundation has provided scholarship support to over 2,000 students in the past year.
For more information on the Madison College Foundation, click here.
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