The Miller-Wenker Family WGSS Scholarship

In January 2018, The Miller-Wenker Family WGSS Fund was established with the Winona State University Foundation.

BACKGROUND AND MOTIVATION
Samantha Miller attended Winona State University from 2007 to 2011, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a minor in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. She went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in Counseling and Psychological Services from St. Mary’s University, and then obtained licensure as a Licensed Practicing Clinical Counselor. Sammi was actively involved in WGSS events and program initiatives during her years at WSU. This included advocacy training, being elected Project Activism leader, and a travel study trip to St. Croix, US Virgin Islands in May 2009 that included volunteer service at a women’s shelter. This trip was a defining experience for Sammi, and the WGSS program yielded deep friendships that continue today. Sammi’s husband John Wenker also is a WSU graduate. Our family believes in strong, ambitious, empowered women, and hopes this endowed fund will help many future WGSS students participate in travel study and enjoy interactions with interesting and informative guest speakers.