The James R. Erickson Memorial Adult Entry Program Scholarship

Jim earned his Bachelors and Masters of Science degrees in biology at Winona State University. He retired in 1996, after 22 years with Winona State University where he served as the Director of the Continuing Education and Extension Department and started both the WSU Elderhostel program (1979) and The Learning Club (1993).

Jim and Ruth (Olson) were married in 1970. They enjoyed traveling the world together and visited 73 countries. Jim also enjoyed boating and all things Mississippi River, hunting, and cooking for and with family and friends.

In retirement, Jim continued to follow his passion for learning and enjoyed volunteering with numerous organizations close to his heart including The Winona County Historical Society, The Learning Club, Cedar Valley Lutheran Church, Commonweal Theatre Company, Minnesota Marine Art Museum, Sauer Health Care, Pickwick Mill, Upper Mississippi Jazz Society, and Great River Shakespeare Festival. Jim and Ruth were also honored recipients of the 2009 Spirit of Winona Award and the 2012 Winona County Historical Society Heritage Service Award.

Scholarship contact is Ruth Erickson (wife of James).