Jane Vivian Madsen Scholarship

Jane Vivian Madsen, the first person in her family to earn a doctoral degree, is an inspiration for the values she attaches to learning. She embodies the critical linkage between education, career and family.

With her husband Colonel Fred Madsen, she reared four children while progressing with her formal education, life-long learning, and advancing in her professional responsibilities. She is a person of values and commitment, as perhaps no better demonstrated than her annual yard decorations of 500 miniature United States flags for patriotic holidays.

Jane’s connection to Winona State University is through her brother John Vivian, a long-time member of the journalism faculty. John Vivian established this scholarship in honor of his sister. Jane’s favorite quotes include:

On the press: “A free press can be good or bad, but, most certainly, without freedom a press will never by anything but bad.” Albert Camus

On education and learning: “Learning is not attained by chance. It must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence.” Abigail Adams

On personal responsibility: “Whether you think you can or think you can’t – you are right.” Henry Ford

Scholarship contacts are Fred Madsen (husband of Jane) and John Vivian (brother of Jane).