Mary Ellen Kowalski Memorial Scholarship Grant

The Mary Ellen Kowalski Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Mary Ellen, a dedicated educator and community member. Established by her husband in 2025, this scholarship aims to support graduating high school seniors from Marathon County pursuing post-secondary education. Applicants are evaluated on their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal challenges, ensuring that deserving students receive the financial assistance needed to succeed in their educational endeavors.

Scholarships
More than 200 students throughout north central Wisconsin, from pre-school to post-graduate, will be awarded scholarships totaling more than $300,000 from the 125 endowed scholarship funds administered within the Community Foundation.
Mary Ellen was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on October 29, 1943. She raised her family in Greendale, Wisconsin, and enjoyed her retirement years in The Villages, Florida, where she spent time traveling, golfing with friends, playing tennis, visiting Disney, and hosting her family. In 2024, Mary Ellen relocated to Weston, Wisconsin, to be closer to her loved ones.
She attended the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where she was actively involved in Alpha Sigma Alpha and was recognized as Sorority Woman of the Year in 1965. Mary Ellen earned a bachelor’s degree in education and began her career teaching English in Milwaukee Public Schools. After several years devoted to raising her children, she transitioned to the banking industry, joining U.S. Bank as a Teller and later advancing to Trust Officer. Her career at U.S. Bank spanned more than twenty years, culminating in her retirement.
On August 13, 1966, Mary Ellen married John, the love of her life. Together they had three children and seven grandchildren, with whom Mary Ellen cherished spending her time. Her personal interests included reading, solving crossword and Sudoku puzzles, and enjoying country music.
Mary Ellen is fondly remembered for her kindness, warmth, strong work ethic, and belief in a quality education. In 2025, this scholarship was established by her husband to honor her legacy and uphold her commitment to lifelong learning for future generations.

Eligibility

Graduating high school senior attending a Marathon County High SchoolAttending a two-year or four-year post-secondary school of educationApplications will be evaluated based on:
Extracurricular involvement, including community service and leadership roles.Academic achievement or has shown an improvement throughout high school career.Potential to succeed at the college level and beyond.Evidence of other circumstances such as family, financial, or personal challenges, which make an applicant more worthy of consideration.