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In 2025, the Madison College Foundation (MCF) reached a milestone that reflects the generosity of our donors and the power of education to transform lives. During the 2024–2025 academic year, the Foundation awarded a record-breaking $2.4 million in scholarships across Madison College. A total of 2,261 scholarships were distributed, with an average award of approximately $1,260—representing a 28% increase over the prior year and the largest volume of scholarship support in the Foundation’s history.
A transformative investment in students
Additionally, in November 2025, Madison College Foundation received the largest non-capital gift in its history: a transformative $4.5 million commitment from W. Jerome Frautschi, creating a major expansion of the Frautschi Family Pathway Scholarship Fund. Originally established with a $1 million lead gift in 2022, the fund supports students with the greatest financial need regardless of background or program of study.
“This visionary gift centers on our students and their futures,” said Foundation CEO Bryan Woodhouse. “It affirms the transformative power of education and ensures many more students can remain enrolled, graduate, and build better lives for themselves and their families.”
MCF Board President Katie Hottmann added, “This gift doesn’t just open doors for students—it creates a lasting legacy of opportunity.”
To date, the Frautschi Pathway Fund has already assisted 187 students, providing consistent support across multiple semesters so that short-term challenges do not stall long-term progress.
Sadly, Mr. Frautschi passed away recently, leaving a legacy of generosity and support for our students and the larger Madison community.
In a statement after his passing, Madison College President Dr. Jennifer Berne said, “Jerry understood that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Through the Frautschi Family Pathway Scholarship Fund, he removed financial barriers that too often stand between students and their dreams, helping them stay enrolled, persist through challenges, and complete their education. Jerry truly believed in Madison College’s mission to be an invaluable asset to our community. We will continue to honor Jerry’s legacy and his belief that the pursuit of higher education leads to a fulfilling life.”
Emergency funding helps keep students in school
In addition to scholarship support, the Madison College Foundation awarded over $75,000 in emergency funding to students. Emergency grants play a critical role in helping students stay enrolled when facing unexpected financial challenges. A sudden car repair, medical bill, housing issue, or child care expense can quickly become the tipping point that forces a student to pause or abandon their studies altogether. Emergency grants provide immediate, targeted support to bridge these short-term gaps, allowing students to remain focused on their coursework rather than financial crises.
For many recipients, the availability of scholarship funding and emergency assistance determines whether they persist or pause their education. By easing financial pressures, MCF enables students to remain focused on learning, skill development, and career preparation without sacrificing family stability or basic needs.
Scholarship growth by year
Figure: Total scholarship dollars awarded by academic year illustrating sustained growth culminating in the 2024–2025 record total.
What this means for our community
Together, these achievements reinforce the Madison College Foundation’s mission to enrich lives and strengthen communities by removing financial barriers. From first-generation to adult learners balancing work and family responsibilities, the opportunity to earn a Madison College credential changes life trajectories. These investments help build stable careers, strengthen households, and enhance our community.
