RICHLAND, Wash. – An innovative scholarship initiative that combines monetary support with mentorship and experiential learning opportunities is ready to help students excel during their educational journey at Washington State University Tri-Cities.
The Ohl Family Foundation has committed $50,000 to become the first donors to the WSU Tri-Cities Impact Scholars program, a unique scholarship initiative designed to empower local students and create pathways to academic and research success. WSU Tri-Cities is now inviting additional donors to join the effort by pledging $50,000 over five years to expand student opportunities.
"The Ohl Family Foundation is committed to supporting projects that enhance and build our local community,” said Phil and Diane Ohl. “The Impact Scholars Program at WSU Tri-Cities provides our family with an opportunity to support local students and future community leaders who will in turn support future students and make important contributions to our community.”
Launching in Jan. 2026 for the 2026–2027 academic year, the Impact Scholars program will support local students from the Tri-Cities and surrounding area who are dedicated to making an impact. With an application process separate from other WSU scholarships, this scholarship will focus on students who have overcome significant barriers, have ambitious career and educational goals, and who are dedicated to giving back to their community. The program will award scholarships to four students annually, and each student will receive $10,000 per year for up to 5 years at WSU Tri-Cities. Each year, $8000 will go toward tuition and related expenses, with $2000 to be used for a variety of learning opportunities, including undergraduate research, travel abroad, internship and career development, or support to travel and present at conferences.
“We are so grateful to the Ohl Family Foundation for stepping up to be the founding donors of the Impact Scholars program,” said Sandra Haynes, chancellor of WSU Tri-Cities. “The Impact Scholars initiative is a key piece of WSU Tri-Cities' larger commitment to our community — creating opportunity and access paired with meaningful research and study opportunities to support students. We are excited to welcome our first cohort in 2026."
The university is asking donors to join the Impact Scholars program by pledging $50,000 over five years. In recognition of their contributions, donors will be welcomed into the "Impact Society," a community of individuals dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of students.
To learn more about the Impact Scholars program or to make a contribution, visit https://tricities.wsu.edu/give/ or contact WSU Tri-Cities Senior Director of Development Anneke Rachinski at anneke.rachinski@wsu.edu or 509-372-7207.
RICHLAND, Wash. – Washington State University Tri-Cities is accepting nominations for the WSU Tri-Cities Women of Distinction Awards. This award recognizes people who identify as women and their allies who have worked to elevate the status and equality of women. Nominees can be campus and community members, or alumnae who have made notable contributions to WSU Tri-Cities through service, teaching or involvement.
The award is presented to five distinguished individuals each year, who meet some or all of the following criteria:
• Exhibits leadership in their discipline or area of expertise.
• Serves as a role model and/or mentors to other women.
• Advocates for positive social change that helps close the leadership gap and create a more equitable society.
• Demonstrates a commitment to the missions of WSU Tri-Cities.
• Demonstrates a commitment to social justice and inclusion.
• Has earned respect within their communities.
• Supports policies, practices, attitudes, and/or actions intended to produce equitable outcomes for all.
• Gives back to the community through their time, talent, and/or resources.
"The Women of Distinction Awards hold a special significance for WSU Tri-Cities by celebrating the achievements of women and allies in the Tri-Cities,” said Sandra Haynes, chancellor of WSU Tri-Cities. “These awards create awareness of what these individuals bring to our community.”
Nominations are due by Feb. 10. The award ceremony and reception will take place on Thursday, Mar. 27 at 5:30 p.m. in the WSU Tri-Cities Consolidated Information Center (CIC) in honor of the selected individuals and nominees. An exhibit showcasing past award winners will be displayed from Mar. 3 – Apr. 4 in the CIC Art Center, where the public can visit Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit tricities.wsu.edu/women-of-distinction.