(Hastings, Nebraska) – A new scholarship program at Hastings College supported by the Jennifer and Scott DeBoer Endowed Scholarship Fund will provide financial support for underrepresented students majoring in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields.
An initial gift of $15,000 will fund three scholarships for the 2022-23 academic year and be split between three students — two current students and one incoming student. A separate gift of $300,000 establishes the endowed fund to make the scholarships renewable and offer ongoing annual scholarships for incoming students beginning with the 2023-24 academic year.
Dr. Scott DeBoer is a 1989 Hastings College graduate and a member of the Hastings College Board of Trustees. He is the executive vice president responsible for Technology and Products at Micron Technology. Jennifer (Olson) DeBoer is a 1988 Hastings College graduate and serves on the board of the Riverstone International School. The couple lives in Boise, Idaho.
“Hastings College provided us with what we now know was a world-class educational experience, in addition to the many wonderful memories and lifelong friendships arising from our time there,” the DeBoers said. “We appreciate the opportunity to give back to the next generation of HC students, and are especially excited by the opportunity to direct this scholarship fund to support students from underrepresented groups interested in STEM areas of study.”
Scholarships awarded from the fund will be in addition to Hastings College and other aid a student may receive, with the intent of offering a limited number of scholarships at a higher amount to students who demonstrate financial need. Scholarships will renew annually provided the student remains in good academic standing.
“We are thankful to Jennifer and Scott DeBoer for establishing this scholarship and providing opportunities for Hastings College students who are underrepresented in STEM fields,” said Dr. Annette Vargas, vice president for student access, enrollment and performance. “Providing additional financial support for these students helps reduce a barrier to college and can change the direction of a student’s life.”
To qualify for this scholarship, designated STEM fields include physics, chemistry, biology, math or computer science, or other technical majors approved by the donors. Underrepresented students include Black, Hispanic and other diverse students, as well as female students.
