Whatever your ability to give, the most satisfying gifts are often toward causes that you personally believe in – and in an institution as large as Williston State College, there is something for everyone!

The WSC Foundation has prepared this Wish List as a way to bring surrounding communities and WSC together in areas of greatest need and highest priority. Below you will find:

Scholarships and Endowments designated toward special interest areas.

Unrestricted Funds are used flexibly to meet top needs and priorities.

Capital Investment Dreams being discussed by the Foundation and investors.

I. Scholarships

Scholarships comprise 80% of the Foundation’s college spending. Endowments maintain an investment priority through a permanent fund managed into the future.

A. Music and Fine Arts – The Foundation board launched a music program at the college in August 2008, run by former Williston High School music teacher Herb Parker, and approved scholarships for music students. But more investment is needed to establish the pilot program as a permanent department at the College.

B. Retired Teachers’ Endowment – Make a donation in the name of an instructor that helped and motivated you. These funds are used to support faculty development. The Foundation will match up to $1,000 per donation up to a total of $25,000.

C. Athletic Endowment – This endowment will help generate scholarships for student athletes. Many of our alumni received athletic scholarships. Here’s a chance for former athletes and other fans to help someone else experience that Teton pride!

The athletic endowment was started in honor of WSC’s first women’s physical education instructor, Colleen “Coke” Aafedt, who started cheerleading and the Pep Club at Williston State, and founded the Winter Carnival.

D. Tool Scholarship Fund – Scholarships are awarded to individual auto and diesel students who are unable to cover the costs of tools for training. The board began the fund this year, but more support is needed.

II. Unrestricted Funds

A wonderful way to partner with the Foundation board, unrestricted financial support allows us to allocate donations in a flexible manner to the College’s highest priorities, unexpected opportunities, and where needed most.

III. Capital Investment Dreams

If you’re fortunate to have more to invest, here are some of our larger hopes and dreams for the college community:

• A Fine Arts Center (for communities and college to enjoy together!)
• An Upgraded Student Union (with theater and commons area)
• Campus Beautification Projects
• Retirement Living (a popular trend on campuses nationwide)

Would you or a family member be able to provide a matching fund to kick off a fund drive in any of these areas? We are more than happy to talk to you about your ideas and special concerns.

Just remember, quality education for these future leaders will pay certain dividends, and every single contribution helps!