Young Alumna Reflects on Impact of Scholarship Assistance

Madison Soliday ’20

Madison Soliday ’20 grew up in Chanhassen, Minnesota. With family in Northwest Indiana, she was familiar with Valpo and was attracted to the small school feel, ease of getting involved, and sense of community the campus offered. Pursuing her interest in sports, she immediately took advantage of the opportunities Valpo offers when as a freshman she served the first of four years as a student manager for the football team. Madison was also involved in the Candlelight services at the Chapel and volunteered at the Porter County animal shelter. 

Like many students at Valpo, Madison received assistance from an endowed scholarship fund that was created from the donors’ planned gift. The Doane and Eunice Dahl Wright Scholarship was established in 2013 through a bequest from Eunice Dahl Wright and has provided assistance to 15 students since its inception, with several students receiving it for multiple years.

Madison understands the impact that scholarships had on her Valpo experience. “I was very fortunate to receive assistance from the Doane and Eunice Dahl Wright Scholarship, which ultimately helped to make it all possible.” Her scholarship assistance also allowed Madison to complete her undergraduate degree without any loans; and in the spring of 2020, she graduated with a bachelor of science in business administration with a double major in finance and sports management. 

Upon graduation, Madison planned to earn a master’s degree in sports administration at Valpo. However, in the fall of 2021, Coach Landon Fox offered her the chance to return to the football program as the director of operations. She quickly jumped at the opportunity, even though it meant putting the master’s program on hold. Madison believes it was the right decision and is thrilled to be working with the Valpo football team. “I really enjoy it  —  every day is different,” she said. “Valpo really is a great community, and I’m very fortunate to be able to stay here a little bit longer.”

Back

© Pentera, Inc. Planned giving content. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer