Named scholarships & funds
When it comes to earning a college degree, the greatest obstacle can be funding.
For this reason, The University of Akron is pleased for the opportunity each year to assist talented, deserving students achieve their dreams, thanks to more than 1,300 named scholarships established through the kindness and generosity of thousands of ¹ú²úÂ×Àí alumni and friends, corporations, and foundations.
Scholarships truly are the best way to ensure that today’s students persist to graduation. Scholarships allow students to enroll full time and remain focused on their studies; they also reduce drop-out rates, decrease the stress of student loans, and shorten the road to graduation.
If you are interested in making a significant contribution to student success, please consider a gift to scholarships. You may also establish a named scholarship at The University of Akron, which can be created to honor a living person, in memory of a loved one, or to contribute to the growth of an area of study.
To learn more, please contact the Department of Development at 330-972-7238.
How do I apply for a scholarship?
This is not the page to apply for scholarships.
Students who want to apply for scholarships should visit the scholarship page on the Financial Aid site. You can find the link for the online application here.
The Department of Development does not accept applications for or distribute scholarships. Scholarships are distributed through the University’s Office of Student Financial Aid.
Search for a Named Scholarship
Wallenfeldt, Dave Endowed Scholarship
The Dave Wallenfeldt Endowed Scholarship was established at The University of Akron in August 2021 by Evert Wallenfeldt to honor and preserve the-memory of his son, Dave Wallenfeldt (1959-2021 ). This scholarship is intended to encourage, enable, and assist a FirstEnergy Corporation employee (or a student not employed by FirstEnergy as provided for below) interested in broadening their base of general knowledge for self-satisfaction, and utilizing higher education to advance in the FirstEnergy organization. Over his 41-year career, Dave's concern for the welfare of his colleagues and FirstEnergy customers was always paramount. The Dave Wallenfeldt Endowed Scholarship will recognize and preserve Dave's great legacy and integrity.
Dave began his service with FirstEnergy as a lineman and advanced through the company, serving in human resources, meter reading supervision, line leadership and supervision of safety in operations. A University of Akron alumnus, he was able to complete requirements for bachelor's and master's degrees in Business Administration in 1998 and 2003, respectively, while working full- time, largely through the encouragement and mentorship of ¹ú²úÂ×Àí professor of management Ken Aupperle. Dave's straightforward approach to life, honesty, and ability to relate to people at all organizational levels was widely recognized, favorably impacting those with whom he had contact.
Individuals with characteristics and interests similar to Dave's (i.e. ability to work in a team environment; demonstrated leadership characteristics; and a passion for assisting others to be successful) are encouraged to apply. Students in good standing with The University of Akron who are pursuing either a bachelor's or master's degree in any program are eligible for consideration. First consideration will be given to applicants employed by FirstEnergy with additional consideration given to students enrolled in the College of Business. Recipients must enroll in 12 credit hours over a full academic year (fall-summer) and have a 3.0 or higher cumulative grade point average. The scholarship can be renewed annually for up to three years as an undergraduate student or for up to two years as a graduate student, as long as the recipient continues to meet the above criteria.
The College of Business will identify top candidates for consideration of this scholarship and share with Marcia Wallenfeldt or her designee, as long as they are available, for review.
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