Viterbo University and Boys & Girls Club community partnership continues to flourish with scholarship program

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Rebecca Strittmatter and Nathaniel Powell were awarded full-tuition scholarships to Viterbo University. Standing are Viterbo University President Glena Temple and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse Executive Director Jake Erickson.

In September 2005, the Amie L. Mathy Center for Recreation and Education opened on the Viterbo University campus. The facility, jointly owned and managed by Viterbo and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse, was the first collaboration of its kind in the nation and the beginning of a unique and lasting community partnership.

The educational programs that have grown out of this relationship have greatly benefitted the youth of the neighborhood, many of whom come from diverse backgrounds and low-income households. Last year, that took on a whole new meaning for one outstanding young person in particular.

Danessa Brocks was the first recipient of a four-year, full-tuition Viterbo University scholarship for being named the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse 2020 Youth of the Year. The scholarship program has doubled this year as club members Rebecca Strittmatter and Nathaniel Powell were awarded full scholarships to Viterbo at a signing event on February 4.

“Congratulations to Becky and Nathaniel, both of whom I know will be wonderful additions to the Viterbo University community,” said Viterbo President Glena Temple. “We look forward to providing them with an outstanding education. This scholarship program fits the mission of both our organizations, but it’s especially great for area youth.”

As students at Viterbo, Strittmatter and Powell will remain connected to the Mathy Center Boys & Girls Club through work and volunteer activities. Both are looking forward to making a difference in the lives of members in the same way they were helped over the years.

“Hearing the news of this unbelievable gift was something I will never forget,” Powell said. “It’s hard to put into words how thankful I am for this opportunity.”