Meaningful Connections Shared at First Annual Scholarship Brunch
By Angela Lenssen
Scholarship recipients and donors had the meaningful opportunity to meet one another at the Carson College of Business’s first annual Scholarship Brunch. The intimate affair was held September 29 on the Pullman campus as a part of the college’s homecoming activities.
In 2018, the college supported 375 students with scholarships, awarding 515 scholarships that collectively totaled $703,140. On average, each recipient received $1,365. Sixty-seven students received international experience scholarships, each receiving $1,435 on average.
The inaugural brunch honored scholarship donors and recipients of the following:
- Brelsford Housing Scholarship
- Carson College of Business general scholarships
- Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate scholarships
- Hospitality Business Management scholarships
- International Advisory Board Scholarship
- International Experience scholarships
Speakers included Dean Chip Hunter who thanked donors for their continued investment in the college. Donor and college namesake Scott Carson spoke on the benefits of donating to scholarship funds and the value of mentorships between industry and students.
Recipient Nam Nguyen, an international business and chemistry major, shared the impact of his study abroad experiences on his college career and publicly thanked two sets of donors in attendance for scholarships he received. As an expression of his gratitude for the scholarship he received, Nguyen presented the Carsons with a portrait of the couple he personally illustrated (watch video).
“To all of my fellow scholars—we should always think about the Cougar family and try to find a way to give back, no matter which industry we are in,” said Nguyen. “Come back and mentor students to support them getting into the industry. If you work in the journalism industry, write about your experience here at WSU. If you are an influencer, speak about your experience. Or even just become a shining role model in your field because wherever the successful Cougs are, the Cougar spirit is present.”
Students and donors alike expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with one another in a meaningful way. The Carson College of Business plans to make this event a tradition each year and will extend invitations to even more donors and recipients of Carson College scholarships.
Learn more about how you can support Carson College of Business scholarships, contact Jeff Pilcher, director of development, at jeff.pilcher@wsu.edu or 509-335-8906.