The Owatonna Foundation is pleased to announce Valeria Olenka Garcia Tiza as a recipient of the June A Nelson Scholarship. This scholarship is funded by a gift from Melanie Nelson and her late mother, June. A strong supporter of Owatonna and with a passion for women’s education, Nelson stated, “My mother, June, and I were thrilled to be able to fund this scholarship. The money will be used to fund two annual non-traditional $1,500.00 scholarships for women in either a two or four year technical or college program. It is so important to be an advocate for women’s education; supporting them in any way possible to ensure their future success, whether financially, by mentoring, or other support. We know that thru the Foundation’s well established scholarship program we will be able to help empower women with a better education.”

Garcia- Tiza is enrolled at Mankato State University majoring in Computer Engineering with the goal of becoming a Software Designer.

The Owatonna Foundation, now in its 60^th year of serving the Owatonna community, provides grants in Owatonna and its environs in four areas: Community, Arts, Recreation, and Education. The Foundation also provides both traditional and non-traditional scholarships for 2 year colleges and technical schools.

The Foundation was established in 1957 with the goal of improving the quality of life for present and future generations of Owatonna residents.  Since then, the Owatonna Foundation has committed more than $11.8 million dollars in grants and scholarships to local organizations and students.

For more information about the Owatonna Foundation, or for an application, please contact us at the Owatonna Foundation office at 455-2995, the Foundation’s web page (https://www.owatonnafoundation.org/) Grants/Scholarships, or Jill Holmes, Scholarship Coordinator, at 455-3059.