Commitment Beyond the First Award: How WAEF Supports College Students Through Renewal Scholarships

19Mar

Commitment Beyond the First Award: How WAEF Supports College Students Through Renewal Scholarships

By News 13 Comments

2025 Renewal Stats

  • 96% of WAEF students achieved renewal or graduated this year
  • 87% are on track to graduate in four or fewer years (national average is 62%)
  • 90 WAEF students graduate this spring
  • WAEF students are averaging a 3.5 grade point average

Many years ago, WAEF directors made a bold commitment: if students remained enrolled full-time, met GPA requirements, and completed renewal steps on schedule, WAEF would continue to support their journey toward a college degree. Every year since, WAEF donors have upheld this pledge, ensuring that students who earn a scholarship are not just given a one-time award, but ongoing encouragement and financial support throughout their college years.

Unlike the rigorous initial application, the renewal process is designed to assess students’ progress and evolving needs. In January, students complete a streamlined renewal application, sharing updates on their education plans, financial situation, and academic standing. Each student is then paired with a Renewal Committee volunteer who reviews their application and meets with them one-on-one. WE are appreciative of the 26 volunteers who served on the renewal committee this year. Their conversations go beyond paperwork—volunteers learn about students’ experiences, challenges, and future goals, helping WAEF understand how best to support them.

Once interviews are completed, volunteers provide guidance on scholarship funding needs, and WAEF staff works to match students with available donor-supported scholarships. We strive to meet each student’s need within $500-$1,000 and are still working to fund a few students this year. If you’re interested in helping a second-, third-, or fourth-year student cross the finish line, we welcome your targeted support. To learn how you can contribute, please reach out to Jennifer Witherbee at jennifer.witherbee@waef.org.

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