Congratulations to Abby Grabowski and Trinity Tompkins as this year’s recipients of the Reschke Scholarship. The Alfred Reschke Scholarship award was established to support outstanding seniors as they enter their final year of study at UW–Madison.
Abby is a Sociology major specializing in the Concentration in Analysis and Research (CAR). Her studies represent the bridge between rigorous quantitative skills and a deep commitment to social justice. “Pairing the sociological perspective gained in the major with the quantitative research skills I develop through the CAR program, I hope to bring my skills into work toward justice in public health in the future,” Abby shared.
Trinity graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology this spring. She will transition into an accelerated nursing program this summer. By entering the nursing field with a sociological background, Trinity is uniquely equipped to look beyond individual symptoms and address the systemic social determinants of health. “I am especially excited to bring a sociological perspective into healthcare,” Trinity says, “and to actively address the disparities we have studied in class.”
For more information on the Alfred Reschke Social Science Scholarship and how to support undergraduate research and service, please visit our Scholarship Page.
Haley Michalski is the recipient of this year’s Andrea Michelle Sperka Scholarship. This undergraduate fund was established to honor the life and legacy of Andrea, a dedicated Sociology student whose time at UW–Madison was defined by academic rigor, a tireless work ethic, and a profound commitment to global and local service.
Haley is a Sociology major graduating in Fall 2026. Like Andrea, Haley’s journey into the field was driven by a desire to understand the human experience more deeply. Entering college during a period of intense social and political tension, Haley found that sociology provided the framework she needed to look beyond headlines and focus on the lived realities of individuals. “I found myself wanting to better understand people’s choices, not only politically, but more broadly as human beings,” Haley says. After graduation, Haley plans to continue applying her sociological lens to create a positive impact, championing kindness and understanding in an increasingly complex world.
For more information on the Andrea Michelle Sperka Scholarship and how to support undergraduate research and service, please visit our Scholarship Page.
Onesti Ekholm-Dean is the recipient of this year’s Alex and Demiana Hanna Pride Scholarship. This undergraduate fund was established by Dr. Alex Hanna (Ph.D. ’16) and her mother, Demiana, to support Sociology majors who demonstrate a profound commitment to advocacy and leadership within the LGBTQ+ community.
Onesti is majoring in Sociology & Legal Studies. She is also a mentor helping students pursue artistic passions while navigating their first year of university.
For more information on the Alex and Demiana Hanna Pride Scholarship and how to support undergraduate research and service, please visit our Scholarship Page.