Jorgen Egeland Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Jorgen was the only child of John and Karen Egeland who homesteaded in the Reserve area of Sheridan County, Montana, in 1906. Karen, his mother, died when Jorgen was five years old so he grew up as his father’s companion and was the “apple of his eye.” He graduated as valedictorian from Medicine Lake High School in 1938. In spite of the “Dirty Thirties,” their frugal lifestyle made it possible for him to attend the University of Montana, School of Forestry, in Missoula. Upon graduation, he served in the Army Air Force in World War II. While there, his crew flew 50 bombing missions in the European Theatre. He returned to Sheridan County, Montana, to farm in 1945. He married Gertrude Vik in 1951. They lived on the original Egeland family homestead, raising a family of six children, the oldest with special needs. Education was always a priority for Jorgen and Gertrude, and by continuing their frugal ways, they were able to help five of their children acquire a higher education. Jorgen always had a soft spot for the underdog and would be pleased to be helping those who need some help to follow their dreams. The first scholarship was awarded in academic year 2007-2008.
Impact
“Thank you for your generosity in providing the Jorgen Egeland Memorial Endowed Scholarship. I was very happy and appreciative to learn that I was selected as a recipient. By awarding me the scholarship, you have lightened my financial burden which allows me to focus more on the most important aspect of school: learning. Again, thank you so much for your generosity.” — Keeley S., Psychology major