Current Recipients
The Oconomowoc Scholarship Fund is proud to award $203,000 of new college funding
to these local high school seniors.
In alphabetical order, this year’s winners are:
Abigail
Abigail Deitz of Oconomowoc has been awarded a $12,000 scholarship financed by the Richard R. and Karen Bertrand Charitable Fund. A life-changing service trip to Guatemala helped Abigail discover her passion for helping others through science, inspiring her to pursue a degree in Biology at UW-Stevens Point this fall.
A well-rounded student, Abigail balanced academics with athletics and the arts. She was a gymnast and sprinter, played cello in the Orchestra and Rockestra, and participated in both the French and National Honor Societies. She also dedicated time to volunteering at Journey 21 and Brooklife Church, reflecting her deep commitment to community and service. The daughter of Tracy and Thomas Deitz, Abigail is recognized for her compassion, intellectual curiosity, and drive to make a difference. We are proud to support her as she works toward a career that blends science with service.
Aiden
Aiden DeMark, son of Misty and Gregory DeMark of Oconomowoc, has been awarded a $12,000 scholarship funded by the Oconomowoc Area Foundation to support his four-year education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he will study computer engineering.
A dedicated student and leader, Aiden is a Global Scholar, a member of the OHS Robotics Team, and part of the LINK Crew, where he helps freshmen transition successfully into high school. His passion for learning and teaching extends beyond the classroom. Aiden serves as a lead instructor at Mathnasium, where he supports more than 30 students each week, from kindergarten math through calculus. With a strong foundation in STEM, leadership, and service, Aiden is well prepared to pursue a future in computer engineering and make a lasting impact in his field.
Anders
Anders Mariano, son of Kristin and the late Elpidio Mariano, of Oconomowoc, will receive a $12,000 Scholarship funded by the late Donald and Marian Bonamer to study engineering at UW-Madison. Anders is a member of the National, German and Math Honor Societies.
In addition to being a member of the Racoons Varsity football team, he was a football camp coach, was a scoreboard operator and ran the ‘chain-gang’ for youth games. He also volunteers as a youth leader for his church’s Vacation Bible School and was a saxophone tutor to aspiring young musicians. Anders was the co-commissioner for the all-inclusive Intramural basketball team and was nominated by his peers to be a member of the Hope Squad which works to support and improve mental health among OHS students.
Avery
Avery Taylor, one of the top academic performers in the OHS Class of 2025, aspires to advance healthcare technology through a degree in Biomedical Engineering at UW–Madison. Her drive to improve the lives of others is matched by her ability to excel across academic, athletic, and leadership arenas. A standout student-athlete, Avery has achieved notable success in volleyball while maintaining active involvement in DECA, Future Business Leaders of America, LINK, and multiple honor societies.
Her accomplishments reflect a remarkable ability to balance a rigorous academic schedule with personal growth and leadership development. Known for her determination and pursuit of excellence both in and out of the classroom, Avery is prepared to take on the challenges of engineering with a focus on innovation and impact. She is the daughter of Kate and Todd Taylor of Oconomowoc and has been awarded a $12,000 scholarship funded by the Oconomowoc Area Foundation to support her undergraduate education.
CaliAnne
CaliAnne Gospodarek, daughter of Wade and Michelle Gospodarek of Oconomowoc, has been awarded the $12,000 Ruth A. Knoll Scholarship to attend Carroll University, where she will study business administration and art. Through personal growth and reflection, CaliAnne has discovered a deep commitment to creating welcoming, meaningful spaces - ultimately aspiring to run and renovate an inn that reflects her artistic vision and care for others.
Her dedication to service and community is evident in her involvement in Students for Service Club, DECA, National and Business Honor Societies, and a variety of volunteer efforts. As a competitive athlete and server at Towner Crest Presbyterian Homes, she has consistently shown resilience, compassion, and empathy in both leadership and caregiving roles. CaliAnne’s journey has been shaped by a strong sense of purpose and a desire to uplift others through creativity, hard work, and heart.
Emily
Emily Gerbing, daughter of Angela and Chad Gerbing of Ixonia, has been awarded a $12,000 scholarship from the Oconomowoc Scholarship Fund to support her four-year undergraduate studies at UW–Madison, where she will major in molecular biology. A well-rounded and driven student, Emily served as President of the OHS National Honor Society and held leadership roles in multiple organizations. She was a member of DECA, the Science and Spanish Honor Societies, and served as Service Director for HOSA: Future Health Professionals. Emily also led her peers as captain of the Varsity Dance Team.
With a strong academic foundation and a passion for science and service, Emily plans to continue her education in dental school following her undergraduate degree. Her dedication, leadership, and commitment to helping others make her a standout recipient of this OSF scholarship.
Fallon
Fallon Radler will receive a $12,000 scholarship courtesy of the Richard and Karen Bertrand Charitable Fund. The daughter of Lisa and Mark Radler, of Oconomowoc, plans to pursue a degree in business at Madison College.
During her high school career, Fallon was an active member of the Social Studies, German, English, and National Business Honor Societies, FBLA, DECA, Student Council and the Fashion Club. After school, she could be found on the court leading the Racoons to the State Girls volleyball tournament, volunteering with several area organizations and greeting customers at the Commodore.
Isabella
Isabella Albano, a dedicated and gifted performer from Oconomowoc, has been awarded a two-year, $3,000 scholarship from the Oconomowoc Scholarship Fund to support her dreams at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City. A passionate performer, Isabella has acted in 13 musicals, served as the 2024–25 Student Play Director, and sings regularly at Crosspoint Community Church and in school choirs. She is also active in DECA, Tri-M Music Honor Society, and the English Honor Society, reflecting her well-rounded involvement and academic commitment.
Known for her creativity, leadership, and strong work ethic, Isabella plans to pursue a professional career in musical theatre. The OSF recognized her depth of talent and dedication in selecting her for this scholarship. Her parents, Chadwick and Nicole Albano, are proud to support her as she takes this next step in her artistic journey.
Jacob
Jacob Smith has been a standout leader both in the classroom and throughout the Oconomowoc community. A well-rounded student, he has been involved in the OHS track team, DECA, Future Business Leaders of America, the International Baccalaureate Career-related Program, and served as a LINK Leader. He is also a member of the Spanish and National Honor Societies. In addition to his academic and extracurricular commitments, he has worked at Presbyterian Homes and volunteered in various community roles, demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility and service.
Jacob will continue his academic journey at UW–Madison where he will study Mechanical Engineering and further explore his passion for innovation and problem-solving. Jacob has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the donors of the Oconomowoc Scholarship Fund for the $12,000 award he received. He is the son of Michelle Smith and Thomas Smith, both of Oconomowoc.
Jonathan
Jonathan Raduenz will receive $12,000 from the Oconomowoc Scholarship Fund to attend UW-LaCrosse where he will study finance. Jonathan is the son of Donn and Kathleen Raduenz, of Oconomowoc. Through his Seminar Digital Communications class offered through OHS, Jonathan worked as the project lead to build a large toy storage unit for City Beach.
He balanced this position while being a member of the National, English and Business Honor Societies, DECA, and the OHS varsity soccer team. Additionally, Jonathan volunteered as the Master of Ceremonies where he was an altar server at St. Jerome's school and weekend masses, benedictions, baptisms, weddings, and funerals.
Jordan
Jordan Winkelman will attend North Dakota State College of Science to begin her journey in healthcare while also continuing her athletic career on the softball field. With plans to transfer to a four-year university after completing her associate degree, Jordan has been awarded a $3,000 two-year scholarship from the Oconomowoc Scholarship Fund to support her goals.
Known for her compassion, positive energy, and respectful nature, Jordan consistently uplifts those around her - qualities that will serve her well in the healthcare field. Her high school involvement includes Ecology Club, LINK Crew, HOSA: Future Health Professionals, and the Spanish and National Honor Societies, reflecting both academic dedication and a strong sense of service. Jordan is the daughter of Stacy and Daniel Winkelman of Ixonia, and she looks forward to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others through her future work in healthcare.
Katelyn
Katelyn Wieschel’s musical journey has been one of growth, passion, and dedication. From performing in the OHS Marching Band and Pit Orchestras to participating in Tri-M and the WSMA State Honors Program, she has developed both her talent and confidence as a musician. As a recipient of the $5,000 George A. Markham Memorial Fund Award, Katelyn will continue her musical pursuits at UW–Madison while also studying Sociology.
Beyond music, Katelyn has shown a deep commitment to her school community through involvement in Costume Crew, Fashion Club, Hope Squad, and the National and Spanish Honor Societies. Her kind-hearted leadership, attention to detail, strong work ethic, and maturity set her apart. With a drive to make a meaningful difference in the world, Katelyn is well prepared for this next chapter. She is the daughter of Melissa and Jonathan Wieschel of Oconomowoc.
Katherine
Katherine Skumatz has been awarded a $12,000 scholarship from the Oconomowoc Scholarship Fund and will attend UW-Whitewater this fall to pursue a degree in accounting. She is the daughter of Mark and Chris Skumatz of Oconomowoc. Katherine brings valuable real-world experience to her future studies, having served as the finance youth apprentice for the Oconomowoc Area School District for the past two years. Her leadership and dedication extend beyond the classroom.
She is a member of the National and Business Honor Societies, Future Business Leaders of America, and Hope Squad, and serves as the drumline section leader in the OHS marching band. With a strong foundation in both academics and hands-on experience, Katherine is well-prepared to excel in the field of accounting and continue making a meaningful impact.
Layla
Layla Slife is widely respected not only for her impressive athletic achievements as a Level 10 gymnast and State Track Champion at Arrowhead High School, but also for her leadership, humility, and strong character. Known as a dedicated coach, supportive teammate, and driven individual, Layla consistently demonstrates selflessness and integrity in all she does.
Her passion for improving lives through innovation has led her to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering at UW-Platteville where she plans to combine creativity, math, and science to make a meaningful impact on the world. Layla, the daughter of Audra and Justin Slife of Oconomowoc, has been awarded a $12,000 scholarship from the Oconomowoc Scholarship Fund in recognition of her academic potential, leadership, and commitment to excellence.
Nicholas
Nicholas Kratzer has been awarded a $12,000 scholarship from the Debbink Family Foundation. The son of David and Ann Kratzer, of Oconomowoc, plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. Nicholas is the OHS Class of 2025 Valedictorian. In addition to being ranked first in this year’s graduating class, he was the President of DECA and a Global Scholar.
As a member of Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, Nicholas volunteered as a math tutor. As a LINK Crew Leader, he organized the Freshman Day of Service and as a member of the Oconomowoc Builders Club he assisted with the construction of ten softball dugouts. Additionally, he was a member of the Spanish Honor Society, the Oconomowoc Sportsmanship Committee, as well as played football, lacrosse and baseball throughout his time at OHS.
Rose
Rose Johnson will attend Hope College in Holland, MI to pursue a degree in elementary education and will receive $12,000 over four years through the M. Jane Hartnett Memorial Trust Scholarship. She is the daughter of Roland and Sarah Johnson, of Oconomowoc. Rose has shared her passion for reading by working at Books & Co. and the Oconomowoc Public Library where she was on the teen advisory board and was a reading mentor for the summer library program.
As President of the Fashion Club and a member of the Thespian Society, Rose could be seen on stage in several different OHS musical theater productions and backstage as a member of the Costume Crew. Additionally, Rose is a member of the National, Rho Kappa Social Studies, English, Tri-M Music and Art Honor Societies.
Sofia
Sofia Kollath will receive a $12,000 scholarship from the Oconomowoc Scholarship Fund to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she will study human ecology and entrepreneurship. Sofia is the daughter of Jen and Paul Kollath, of Oconomowoc. She maintained a high GPA while working at Sobie’s throughout high school.
Additionally, Sofia’s extracurricular activities focused on leadership and service through DECA, Student Council and the Athletic Leadership and Sportsmanship Council. She represented OHS at the Wisconsin Leadership Seminar at Carroll University as a junior and is considered one of the school's top service leaders. Out of the classroom, Sofia is a successful and competitive member of the track and tennis teams.
Tyler
Tyler Wacker, son of Timothy and Ellen Wacker, of Oconomowoc, will receive a $12,000 scholarship over four years funded by the Oconomowoc Area Foundation to study accounting at the University of Minnesota. He was exposed to accounting when he was elected Treasurer of the Oconomowoc Chamber Orchestra, a volunteer-based organization.
Tyler is an accomplished violinist with the OHS Orchestra and a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society. He enjoys mentoring young musicians as well as encouraging his fellow teammates on the cross-country and track and field teams. He is a positive role model on and off the field.
Zoey
Zoey Schultz is deeply passionate about wildlife, conservation, and protecting the environment. Her commitment to making a difference is reflected in hands-on fieldwork and research in Geology and Environmental Science, as well as extensive volunteer efforts with Trout Unlimited, the Milwaukee County Zoo, and several environmental organizations.
In addition to her environmental work, Zoey has been an active member of the National, French, and Science Honor Societies, as well as Students for Service, all of which have supported her academic and personal growth. Her curiosity, compassion, and dedication to preserving the natural world continue to drive her forward. Zoey will attend UW-Stevens Point this fall to pursue a degree in Wildlife Ecology and Management. She is the daughter of Gary Schultz of Oconomowoc and Abbey Schultz of Hartland, and has been awarded a $12,000 scholarship from the Oconomowoc Scholarship Fund to support her education and future impact.