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Jenna Meyer awarded inaugural David W. Wilson Scholars Endowed Fund Scholarship

South Tama graduate secures full-ride to UNI

Wilson Student Scholar Jenna Meyer, a member of the South Tama County High School Class of 2024, pictured on May 7 in Tama after being surprised with the news of her selection. Meyer is the first-ever Tama County high school graduate to receive the honor which includes a full-ride to the University of Northern Iowa. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The University of Northern Iowa proudly announces Jenna Meyer as the inaugural recipient of the David W. Wilson Scholars Endowed Fund Scholarship. Meyer, a senior from South Tama High School, was surprised with the news of her selection as the first-ever David W. Wilson Student Scholar during a break between classes on Monday, May 7.

Meyer’s selection as the inaugural Wilson Student Scholar honors her outstanding achievements and symbolizes the beginning of a legacy of excellence and empowerment at UNI.

“This scholarship represents a commitment on the part of David Wilson to educational access, excellence and community impact for deserving students from Tama County. This gift will provide unparalleled opportunities for future generations, empowering recipients to achieve their dreams,” said Leslie Wilson, dean of the Wilson College of Business at UNI. “Jenna Meyer embodies the spirit of perseverance and achievement that the scholarship is designed to recognize and support. We are thrilled she is our inaugural Wilson Student Scholar. I am confident she will be instrumental in establishing a legacy of empowerment and achievement for Tama County students here at UNI.”

David W. Wilson’s transformative $25 million gift to UNI paved the way for the creation of the David W. Wilson Scholars Endowed Fund, which is dedicated to supporting deserving students who reside in Tama County, Iowa.

Growing up in Traer, Iowa, a mere 30 minutes south of Cedar Falls, Wilson’s deep roots in the community inspired his commitment to providing educational pathways for future generations of Panthers. The establishment of the Wilson Scholars Fund represents the hope and promise to empower countless students to achieve their academic and professional aspirations.

“I wanted to apply for this scholarship just by reading about David Wilson and his story,” said Jenna Meyer. “It’s really special that I’m the first one ever to receive this. It’s a really big honor and I’m very grateful.”

While Meyer is the first-ever David W. Wilson Student Scholar, eventually four will be funded annually. The David W. Wilson Scholars Endowed Fund Scholarship covers tuition, room and board and fees, aiming to provide unparalleled opportunities for students in Tama County who demonstrate exceptional promise and financial need.