A $4.5 million gift from W. Jerome Frautschi, the largest non-capital contribution in Madison College Foundation’s history, will significantly expand scholarship opportunities for Madison College students, Madison College announced on Monday.
“This gift has significant power,” said Madison College President Dr. Jennifer Berne in a press release. “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.”
The Frautschi Family Pathway Scholarship Fund was established in 2022 with a $1 million gift from Frautschi. This new $4.5 million commitment furthers the initial vision to support students with the greatest financial need, regardless of background or program of study, helping them to graduate with the skills and training needed for a prosperous future.
“At the heart of this visionary gift are our students — their dreams, determination, and futures,” said Madison College Foundation Chief Executive Officer Bryan Woodhouse. “We are deeply moved and incredibly grateful to Mr. Frautschi. This gift affirms the power of education to transform lives, ensuring more students can stay in school, graduate, and build better lives for themselves and their families.”
With support from the Frautschi family, Frautschi, and other donors, the Madison College Foundation provided over 2,300 students with scholarship support in the last year, in addition to emergency assistance and capital improvements that directly benefit students.
