Categories: College University AthleticsCollege/University News

Southwestern Oklahoma State University Receives Charitable Gift for Football Scholarship

Students practicing football on the Southwestern Oklahoma State University campus

News Summary

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has received a generous donation from the Jim & Tanya Mitschke Family to establish the Mitschke Family Endowed Scholarship Fund. This fund aims to support students in the SWOSU Football program, easing their financial burden as they strive for excellence in athletics and academics. The Mitschke Family’s longstanding commitment to the university showcases the importance of philanthropy in enhancing educational experiences. The SWOSU Foundation will manage the scholarship fund, reinforcing the value of education and athletics within the community.

Weatherford, Oklahoma

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has announced a significant charitable gift from the Jim & Tanya Mitschke Family of Owasso. This contribution will establish the Mitschke Family Endowed Scholarship Fund, which will benefit students enrolled in the SWOSU Football program.

Jim Mitschke, a 1964 alumnus of SWOSU, has strong ties to the university’s football legacy, having served as Team Co-Captain during his final year. In addition to his role in athletics, Mitschke is a highly decorated veteran of the Vietnam War, where he served as Captain of an AH-1 Cobra Gunship in the United States Army. His military career is marked by the receipt of the Silver Star and several other medals and commendations, showcasing his dedication and bravery.

The Mitschke Family has a long history of supporting SWOSU, demonstrating their commitment to aiding the educational and athletic pursuits of students. The newly established scholarship fund is designed to provide financial assistance specifically for those participating in the football program, ensuring that student-athletes have the necessary resources to succeed both on the field and in their academic endeavors.

SWOSU President Dr. Diana R. Lovell expressed appreciation for the Mitschke Family’s generous contribution, noting that their support will significantly benefit student-athletes at the university. This gratitude reflects the importance of philanthropy in enhancing the educational experience at SWOSU.

The Mitschke Family Scholarship Fund will be managed by the SWOSU Foundation, Inc., an organization established in 1977 with the goal of promoting philanthropy and supporting the various programs and activities at SWOSU. The foundation operates from its headquarters located on the SWOSU Campus in the historic Burton House, underscoring the university’s commitment to fostering a robust donor community.

Aimed at making a positive impact on the lives of student-athletes, the scholarship fund will provide essential financial support, potentially easing the burden of tuition and other educational costs. This initiative is especially significant for those involved in athletics, who often face the dual challenge of balancing sports commitments with academic responsibilities.

Individuals interested in learning more about the Mitschke Family Endowed Scholarship Fund or how to apply for it can reach out to the SWOSU Office of Institutional Advancement by calling 580-774-3267. Additional information regarding the fund and the SWOSU Foundation is available on their official website.

The formation of the Mitschke Family Endowed Scholarship Fund represents a strategic investment in the future of SWOSU’s athletic programs and the university community as a whole. Such contributions not only enhance athletic excellence but also reinforce the importance of education and leadership in the lives of students.