FHSU University Communications
For the fifth consecutive year, the Schmidt Foundation will provide full-ride scholarships to five exceptional Fort Hays State University students.
Over the past several weeks, Fort Hays State representatives visited area high schools to surprise each student in person. These announcements included life-changing news that the Schmidt Foundation would cover a full-ride scholarship for the students to attend FHSU beginning in the fall 2025 semester.
The selection committee seeks academically gifted students who demonstrate the leadership skills necessary to contribute significantly to FHSU, the Hays community, and the state of Kansas.
First-generation students from Kansas planning to major in healthcare, education, business, entrepreneurship, arts, or communications programs receive scholarship preference. Though preferred, it is not required that a student major in one of these areas to be considered for the scholarship.
Schmidt Foundation scholars receive financial support to cover 30 hours of tuition and fees for fall and spring courses, books, and room and board. Once accepted, recipients can renew their scholarship for up to three additional years by maintaining their academic standing and meeting the scholarship requirements.
Scholarship recipients for Fall 2025 include Montanna Voyles, Jaden Demercurio, Alicia Torres, Olivia Sutton, and Monique Carmona.
Montanna will graduate from Norwich High School this spring. After suffering the tragic losses of her mother and brother in the span of only a few years, Montanna struggled with grief and mental health issues. Her determination to attain a psychology degree and become a mental health therapist drives her forward in her quest to help others. “Despite the challenges,” she said. “I’m determined to succeed and show people that no matter what comes your way, you can always keep going.”
A Manhattan High School senior, Jaden has an unwavering commitment to his education. He has consistently maintained a high GPA despite family financial issues. Jaden hopes to pursue a degree in nursing to enable him to make a difference in the world. “This gift (the Schmidt Foundation Scholarship) would make me the first in my family to achieve a college degree,” he said. “A title that I would own with honor and gratitude.”
After graduating from Cimarron High School, Alicia once believed she would never go to college. However, the opportunity given to her by the Schmidt Foundation will enable her to pursue her passion for social work. The financial support of the Schmidt scholarship will “allow me to focus on my studies, work toward my degree in social work, ultimately pursue my passion, and break the cycle to create a better future for myself and others,” she said.
Olivia, Wichita East High School, has seen a series of challenges throughout her life that would overwhelm most people. Olivia experienced many years of instability. The constant in her life has been excelling in educational pursuits, mentoring, teamwork, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. “I am longing to build something greater than myself,” she said. Olivia plans to pursue a degree in medical diagnostic imaging for her future career as a radiologist.
Monique will graduate from Garden City High School. Growing up in a big family of Hispanic women, Monique has faced many challenges. Her mother taught her to be independent and work hard throughout her academic years. Monique has maintained a high GPA throughout high school. “I have a deep passion for becoming an ultrasound technician and studying radiology,” she said. “This field not only fascinates me but allows me to contribute to the community by providing essential healthcare services.”
For questions regarding the Schmidt Foundation Scholars application process, please contact the FHSU Office of Admissions at 785-628-5666, [email protected]