Mitchell Scholars Program
Advancing Education Together
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A transformative $33 million donation has been made to the Mitchell community with the explicit goal of elevating local education and making Mitchell, South Dakota, the premier community for education.
Gifted by Roger and Vicki Musick, the funds are earmarked as two $15 million endowments, one for the Mitchell Public School District and one for Dakota Wesleyan University, launching a new era of opportunity for students, educators and administrators. The remaining $3 million is being presented to the institutions as immediate seed money to launch these programs without delay.
Pathway to Higher Education
“This donation is based on the belief that nothing is more important than great educators. These funds are intended to provide comprehensive scholarships for all educators and
administrators in the Mitchell Public School District to pursue master's degrees and professional development from DWU. It will also establish scholarships for graduates of Mitchell
High School, with additional scholarships provided for high school juniors and seniors who receive free or reduced lunch to take DWU courses, creating a vital and affordable pathway to
higher education.”
- Roger Musick
With this incredible gift, the DWU Musick Endowment Fund has been created to support the Mitchell Scholars Program.
Educating Teachers
Teachers in the Mitchell Public School District will have an opportuntity to earn a Master of Arts in Education degree tuition free from DWU. With five degree options available, Mitchell teachers will have the ability to select a degree option that fits their goals.
Additionally, Dakota Wesleyan Unviersity will provide the Mitchell School District with Teachers' Aides to support teachers in the classroom.
Empowering Mitchell Public Schools
“This gift will transform the opportunities we can offer our Mitchell Public School students, both now and for generations to come. Roger and Vicki’s generosity is a powerful
expression of faith in our schools, and in the young people, families and educators who make this community strong. Their vision recognizes that when we invest in early learning, grow
after-school opportunities and help our teachers reach their fullest potential, we are setting the stage for lifelong success. This is more than a donation. This is the
beginning of a brighter future for all of Mitchell."
- Dr. Joe Childs, Superintendent of Mitchell School District
Managed via the newly formed Mitchell Public Schools Foundation for Academic Excellence, the endowment will underwrite:
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A full-day no-cost Begindergarten program (for children not quite ready for kindergarten)
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Expansive, free after-school programs at all district elementary schools
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Enrichment offerings, additional tutors and support services
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These enhancements are intended to supplement, not replace, existing public funding.
Mitchell High School Students
Mitchell High School students have the unique opportunity to continue their education close to home. The Bridge Program offers Mitchell students a chance to take college courses and earn college credit while in high school. Additionally, MHS graduates will receive special scholarship award and personalized support to make the transition to DWU smooth and affordable.
Returning Mitchell Students
At Dakota Wesleyan, students are more than just a number, and, compared to other colleges in South Dakota, students are supported and inspired to make a difference.
Mitchell High School graduates who have started their college journey elsewhere will be able to take advantage of a $2,500 transfer scholarship designed to make finishing a bachelor's degree close to home affordable and seamless.
Making Mitchell Home
"This donation is a powerful investment in the future of Mitchell, giving every student the opportunity to succeed. But this is just the beginning. By working together, the people of Mitchell can ensure the city becomes a beacon for young families and a place where every child can thrive." - Roger Musick
With free after-school programs, free master's degrees and multiple scholarship opportunities, Mitchell, South Dakota, is THE community for living and working.
In the News
Thank you to our local and regional media partners for providing coverage of this transformational gift. Subscriptions may be required to access news links
below.
Mitchell Republic: LIVESTREAM: DWU and Mitchell Public Schools
announcement
Mitchell Republic: Roger, Vicki Musick gifts $33 million in 'historic' donation to Mitchell Public Schools, Dakota Wesleyan
Dakota News Now: $33 million donation made for Mitchell education advancements
KELOLAND News: $33 million gift to change Mitchell education forever
South Dakota Public Broadcasting: Mitchell School District, DWU receive 'transformative' gift of $33M
KOTA: $33 Million Gift Transforms Education in Mitchell, SD
Mitchell Republic: Hagen: Big donation makes for Mitchell's biggest story ever
Philanthropy News Digest: Mitchell School District, Dakota Wesleyan receive $33 million
Mitchell Republic: 'Wonderful’ new KERNELS after school program welcomes first batch of students
Mitchell Republic: When can we get started?’ Free master’s degrees incoming for Mitchell School District teachers
Mitchell Republic: Musick endowment adds new dimension to Mitchell’s community appeal
Mitchell Now: $30M Musick Endowment Strengthens Education, Community Appeal
DWU News: DWU appoints Education professor to new position
Mitchell Republic: Kittle: What does it mean for Dakota Wesleyan University
SD Searchlight: Belief in education’s role in community drove $33 million gift, donor says
Pierre Capital Journal: Mitchell man talks about his motivation for donating to local schools and university
