Utah Valley University’s (UVU) School of Education (SOE) gathered community partners, donors, alumni, and campus leaders on May 12 to celebrate educators and benefit the RISE Scholarship. The event raised more than $50,000 in pledged donations for the scholarship fund.
The RISE (Resources Impacting the Success of Educators) Scholarship is a community-driven initiative at the UVU SOE designed to provide scholarship access to as many students as possible. The only eligibility requirement is that the student must be enrolled in the SOE.
Students often navigate diverse challenges, with many balancing the responsibilities of parenthood, working full- or part-time jobs, or being the first in their families to attend college. By increasing scholarship access, SOE aims to remove the financial obstacles, allowing students to focus on becoming teachers and creating a lasting, positive impact within their future communities.
“I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our generous donors, whose vision provides the resources necessary for our growth,” said Krista Ruggles, Ph.D., UVU SOE interim dean. “Your investment directly supports our students as they navigate their educational journeys and prepare to serve as the next generation of leaders in our schools.”
The event honored students who have demonstrated dedication and excellence with the SOE Outstanding Student Award. Recipients were UVU students Cassidy McCulloch and Brooklyn Tolboe Duffin. Additionally, alumni who are making a difference in the lives of Utah’s youth were recognized with the SOE Alumni Award. Recipients were Alex Robinson of Cedar Valley High School, Danielle Driggs of Ridgeline Elementary, and Brooke Grant of Union Middle School.
“These individuals embody the dedication and excellence we strive to instill in every graduate of our program,” said Ruggles. “Their academic rigor and passion for the teaching profession assure us that the future of the classroom is in very capable hands.”
The UVU SOE maintains stable enrollment despite a nationwide decline in teacher preparation programs. With enrollment ranking second among state-sponsored institutions, the program remains a leading pipeline for future educators. Notably, approximately 82% of UVU’s graduates go on to work within the state of Utah, reinforcing the university’s vital role in addressing local workforce needs. The SOE also serves a diverse and access-focused population, with one-third of its preservice teachers identifying as first-generation college students.
For additional information about UVU SOE please visit https://www.uvu.edu/school-of-ed/.
