Matthew’s journey began in the heart of rural Owen, Wisconsin, where his graduating high school class was just 38 students. Growing up amidst the challenges of dairy farming, having money for college was always on his mind.
The FFWS scholarship changed things for Matthew. The grant alleviated financial burdens and enabled Matthew to pursue extracurricular activities and dedicate himself fully to his education.
Matthew held many leadership positions during his time at UWRF including Alpha Gamma Rho Colligate Advisory Council (CAC) Region II Director; Interfraternity Council Senator; Student Government Association Head Justice; Student Government Finance Committee Senate Representative; UWRF Interfraternity Council President; Clark County 4-H Project Leader; UWRF Collegiate Farm Bureau Secretary; UWRF Dairy Club Yearbook Editor; and Wisconsin Junior Jersey Association President in addition to his volunteer work and academic honors. Matthew also served as a UWRF Student Representative for FFWS Student Advisory Board.
“After receiving the FFWS grant, I no longer had the constraints of working which made it possible for me to focus on my education and pursue other opportunities. I achieved a 4.0 GPA for three consecutive semesters because of this gift,” Matthew explained.
The impact of the scholarship extended beyond financial relief. Matthew’s involvement in the FFWS student advisory board became a cornerstone. This platform connected him with fellow recipients, fostering friendships. The camaraderie among scholarship recipients provided emotional support and sparked honest conversations about financial support.
Reflecting on how the scholarship broadened his perspective on education and access to opportunities, Matthew spoke of serving on the student senate. This experience exposed him to the challenges faced by marginalized groups encountering financial barriers to higher education. The FFWS scholarship opened doors for Matthew and instilled in him a sense of responsibility to advocate for equal educational access.
As Matthew looks toward the future, he envisions a path of philanthropic giving. Inspired by the generosity of the FFWS founders, John and Tashia Morgridge, he aspires to establish a scholarship for students with dairy backgrounds attending UW-River Falls, exemplifying the value of giving back to the community that helped shape him.
Matthew’s story is not just one of academic success, but a testament to the transformative power of scholarships – touching lives, fostering community, and propelling individuals towards brighter futures.
Graduation Achievements
Bachelor of Science in Dairy Sciences and Agriculture Business, May 2024
UWRF Honors Program
Magna Cum Laude
Dean’s List, University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF)
Chancellor’s Award for Students, Highest non-academic distinction awarded to a student, April 2023