2023 Allan’s Wish Foundation Scholarship Recipient

We are thrilled to announce the 2023 winner of the Allan’s Wish Foundation scholarship! This year’s award goes to Samantha Stapelmann of Wisconsin.

She will be attending Olivet Nazarene University majoring in Psychology and minoring in Music while playing in the orchestra.

Samantha attended Lakeside Lutheran High School in Wisconsin and while in school, Samantha was an overachieving student …musician-violin, athlete- volleyball/softball, chess club, art club, American Sign Language, and also participated in many church mission trips to areas of poverty.

Here are Samantha’s own words from a life changing service mission:

“There was a church that was fenced up with security cameras and locks – it looked just like a prison. The church was a symbol to me of refuge, love, and light in the depths of darkness. We woke up at 4:00 AM and were with poverty stricken children until 10:00 PM. I learned that while my problems were challenging, they were nothing compared to what these kids experienced. As I move into this next chapter of my life, I have dedicated my education and future profession where I can continue to help others and teach them the love of God. I will be going to college for a psychology major and engraining Christ within it.”

Samantha continues with “once I have my bachelors degree I’ll pursuit a Ph.D and focus primarily on teens and young adults. I have always worked while in school…. this scholarship not only helps me financially but stands as a reminder to me that mental illness should not define anyone. Thank you so much for this opportunity- it’s a tremendous blessing and I am extremely grateful.”

Samantha – Allan would have been very proud to hear about your love for Christ and passion to help others. He was selfless in spirit- often trying to give away what little he owned to nieces and nephews.

His spirit lives on in your journey.

Thanks to all our donors, if you wish to make a donation please contact allanswishfoundation@gmail.com.

Previous scholarship winners

2022 – Macy Snyder

2021 – Kysa Auen