Tribute Funds at Wilmington University

Contributions to established tribute funds support Wilmington University's mission to provide students with access to education while celebrating and providing a lasting memory of one’s impact.

Memorial Funds

Dr. Stephanie Battis Memorial Scholarship

Established in memory of Dr. Stephanie Battis, this scholarship provides financial assistance to Human Resources undergraduate students. Dr. Battis embodied the Wilmington University mission and was profoundly loyal. She respected her students, taught with genuine passion, and was known for her upbeat personality and positive attitude.

Dr. Battis served the University as a member of Academic Affairs and the College (then the Division) of Business for 32 years. She began her career at then-Wilmington College as an assistant professor, and in just a few years, became an associate professor and chair of the Human Resources Management program. Dr. Battis later chaired the Organizational Management program and went on to serve as a graduate student advisor in the College of Business. In recognition of her service, this scholarship was established by the College of Business and is funded by family, friends, colleagues and alumni who miss her deeply.

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Linda Thomas Scholarship

Established in memory of Linda Thomas, this scholarship provides financial assistance to a student pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Wilmington University. Dr. LaVerne Harmon established this scholarship fund in 1999 in memory of her sister.

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Quinn Family Memorial Scholarship

This Legacy Scholarship benefits deserving students who dream of earning a college degree but lack the financial means. Originally established by William P. “Bill” Quinn as the Mark S. Quinn Memorial Scholarship in 2018 through the Estate of Mark S. Quinn, the scholarship fund also honors Mark’s brother, Bill. Mark, a manager in the Facilities and Maintenance Department, and Bill, the senior director of Facilities and Maintenance Services, served Wilmington University for a collective 49 years. Together, Mark and Bill leave behind a legacy graced by the love of family, respect for colleagues, and dedication to students. Donations to this fund are accepted graciously by all who wish to contribute.

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Mig Reardon Memorial Nursing Scholarship

Established in 2009 in memory of Marguerite “Mig” Reardon by the College of Health Professions and nursing alumni, this scholarship provides financial assistance for undergraduate students pursuing a nursing degree at Wilmington University. Mig was a graduate of both the BSN and MSN: Nurse Practitioner programs. Through dedication and perseverance, Mig successfully achieved her dream of becoming a nurse practitioner. Shortly after, at the age of 59, Mig died of cancer. Mig is fondly remembered for her passion for the nursing profession, quick wit, infectious smile, and determination.

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William and Mary Bescherer Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2014 in memory of Mr. and Mrs. William Bescherer, who both contributed to their communities and had a genuine passion for serving others. Mary Bescherer was a dedicated nurse who retired as the director of nursing at Clara Mass Hospital in New Jersey. William Bescherer owned his own business and was the founding member of the Vallsburg First Aid Squad. He served as the chief and president of the squad for 15 years.

Florence and Larry Miller established this fund. Florence is a member of the Wilmington College alumni class of 1971. Also a Wilmington University alum (1990), Larry Miller currently serves on the Wilmington University Board of Trustees.

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Honorary Funds

Dr. Jack P. Varsalona Scholarship

After dedicating 30 years of service to the University, Dr. Jack Varsalona retired as president of Wilmington University on June 30, 2017. Under his leadership, University enrollment nearly doubled and University locations increased from four to 11, expanding to New Jersey and Maryland. Wilmington College became Wilmington University in 2007 to reflect its strong strategic plan and evolving nature. Dr. Varsalona is well known for the caring and collaborative culture sharing by staff and students that he cultivated during his time at Wilmington University. In recognition of his service and many wonderful accomplishments, this scholarship fund was established.

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Future of Nursing Excellence Scholarship

Wilmington University alumnae Dr. Candace Sandal and Dr. Bernadette Thomas established this scholarship in 2020, the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife, in honor of the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale's birth. Both Drs. Sandal and Thomas are passionate ambassadors of Wilmington University and are tireless in their efforts to support aspiring nurses and advocate for the nursing profession. This scholarship is designed to ease the financial burdens on nursing and health sciences students.

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Sandra L. and Thomas S. Shaw Scholarship

Established by Sandra and Thomas Shaw, this scholarship provides course funding for Wilmington University students who are honorably discharged veterans, active members of the military or immediate family members of veterans who have graduated from the University. Mr. Thomas Shaw is a member of the Wilmington College Class of 1974 and currently serves as Vice Chairman and Treasurer on the Wilmington University Board of Trustees.

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  If you have interest in establishing a tribute fund at Wilmington University, please contact us to start the process.