7 states, $518,000 in scholarships: Ashley awards 148 students
North Carolina recipients
Amina Accram Brooks //September 9, 2025
ARCADIA, Wis. – Ashley Furniture Inds. and the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation have awarded more than $518,000 in scholarships to 148 students for the 2025-2026 academic year.
The Ashley Grants-in-Aid scholarships will support high school senior dependents of Ashley employees and students currently employed by Ashley. For the 2025-2026 academic year, $152,000 in scholarships will help 76 students pursue their educational goals.
Additionally, The Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation will support the academic pursuits of 74 students dedicated to innovation and excellence. More than $370,000 in scholarships will help support students pursuing degrees in automation, engineering, information technology, manufacturing, design and other academic disciplines across select states.
Recipients across seven states will benefit from these scholarships, including Wisconsin, Mississippi, Florida, North Carolina, California, Pennsylvania and Texas. The students will also be invited to tour Ashley’s facilities, providing them with a behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge operations, innovative manufacturing processes and the company’s dedication to developing the next generation of industry talent.
“I’ve always admired Ashley and the Wanek’s generosity and commitment to education,” said Ben Chmura, who is an Ashley employee. “So, when my son Jack was awarded this scholarship, it only deepened that admiration. It truly takes a village to raise a child, and every bit of support helps to set them up for success. This scholarship means a great deal to our family and will help Jack to earn his Mechanical Engineering degree.”
Established by Ronald Wanek, founder and chairman of Ashley Furniture, and his wife, Joyce, the foundation has invested more than $4 million in more than 2,180 student scholarships since 1997. Through its various programs and partnerships, the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation aims to inspire and empower students to pursue careers in STEM fields, as well as improve the quality of life in the communities.
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