Partners in progress: How the Thompson Scholarship Programs are shaping the future at BGSU

Director Mary Kay Inkrott Hiser and team are championing a new era of student success

By Victoria Dugger

When Thompson Scholars arrive at Bowling Green State University, they find more than just a campus; they find a connected community dedicated to their success and personal growth. Central to this mission is the transformative Thompson Working Families Scholarship Program, which provides students not only with financial support but also with mentorship, career preparation, public service opportunities and a lifelong support network.

At the helm of these initiatives is Mary Kay Inkrott Hiser '05, '06, director of Thompson Scholarship Programs, whose leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the program's success.

A proud two-time alumna of BGSU, Hiser earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education - sport management and a Master of Education degree - sport administration. Her professional path is rooted in her own experiences as a student and the mentorship she received. She has held various positions within the University, each focusing on student engagement and support.

“When I talk about my favorite part of the job, one aspect I always share is how the mission and heart of the Thompson’s legacy in providing access to higher education resonates with me because I was able to come to BGSU because of scholarships," Hiser said. “So when the opportunity arose for me to work with this program, I knew I would love to give back out of gratitude through working with a population that I personally knew and understood the impact a scholarship could have.”

Hiser has been supporting the Thompson Working Families Scholarship since August 2016, overseeing all aspects of Thompson Scholarship Programs, particularly in student support/success and programming/retention. With more than 15 years of experience in higher education, her diverse background in athletics and academic advising uniquely positions her to lead Thompson Scholarship Programs with insight and empathy.

"Thompson Scholarship Programs is about providing more than just financial assistance," said Hiser. "We offer personalized support for each scholar, professional development and community-building activities that help students thrive both academically and personally."

Thompson Scholarship Programs at BGSU focuses on creating opportunities and removing obstacles that could inhibit success. Rooted in the generous legacy of alumni Robert and Ellen Thompson, the program empowers students to reach their fullest potential with a focus on academic excellence, leadership development and public service.

The Thompson Working Families Scholarship aids students from working-class families and helps high-achieving BGSU students make a difference in their communities. Recipients must meet financial need requirements, have excelled academically and be committed to continuing the Thompsons’ legacy of service.

"Our goal is to support students in every aspect of their college experience," Hiser explained. "From helping them adjust to college life to providing resources for their professional development, we are committed to their success."

The support system: A pillar of strength

A cornerstone of the Thompson Working Families Scholarship Program is its robust support system. This framework ensures that every scholar receives personalized guidance and encouragement throughout their academic journey.

From the moment students are accepted into the program, they are enveloped in a network of support that includes personalized scholarship advising, a Thompson-specific BGSU 1910 Life Design course, early move-in, first-year Summer Link Program/Orientation, community service opportunities and a variety of resources aimed at promoting academic and personal growth.

“Most people apply for the scholarship because of the money, but what we also tell students from the very start is, 'Yes, the financial benefit of the scholarship is great and alone would be life-changing, but you're getting so much more',” Hiser said. “A huge component of that is the one-on-one support that the scholars have with their Thompson scholarship advisor.”

Regular check-ins with advisors ensure that students are progressing well and that any challenges are addressed promptly. This support puts students on track to graduate in four years or less, with minimal debt. Students selected to be Thompson Scholars receive $11,000 annually, covering about 75% of tuition and fees for the duration of their college years.

By fostering a supportive community, Thompson Scholarship Programs also helps build a network of students committed to giving back and making a difference in their communities. This ripple effect of positive change aligns with the University’s broader mission of public service and engagement.

"The sense of community among Thompson Scholars is incredibly strong," Hiser noted. "They support each other, collaborate on projects and often become lifelong friends. This network is invaluable as they move forward in their careers and lives."

Collaborative efforts: Building bridges to success

Thompson Scholarship Programs at BGSU actively collaborates with various campus departments and external partners to enhance the resources and opportunities available to scholars. This collaborative approach ensures students receive well-rounded support and are prepared for life beyond college.

"Our partnerships with campus partners, such as Academic Advising, the Division of Student Engagement and Success, the Kuhlin Hub and Radbill Center, are crucial," Hiser explained. "These collaborations allow us to provide a more comprehensive support system for our students."

By working closely with a Thompson-dedicated career coach within the Michael and Sara Kuhlin Hub for Career Design and Connections, Thompson Scholars can take part in tailored career workshops, resume review sessions and networking opportunities. These initiatives help students develop their professional skills and make valuable industry connections.

"We want our scholars to graduate not only with a degree but with the skills and connections they need to succeed in their chosen fields," Hiser said.

Reflecting on her tenure, Hiser cites several significant achievements but distills the impact she and the Thompson team make down to two words: relationship building.

“I think at the heart of our work is relationship building and determining how we can play even the smallest part in a student’s success,” Hiser said. “There are so many student success stories that make me smile, but the most rewarding ones are when students cross the graduation stage and receive their diploma despite the challenges they faced.”

Create public good with us: A call to action

The Thompson Foundation recently announced the Thompsons will expand their philanthropic partnership to provide nearly a quarter of a billion dollars in student scholarships at the University. This contribution will be the largest in the University’s history, the largest single gift designated to student scholarships in the state of Ohio’s history and one of the largest non-endowed scholarship programs of its kind in the nation. With this gift announcement, more than 6,200 BGSU students are expected to receive Thompson scholarship support through 2035.

BGSU is committed to matching the required Thompson scholarship funding, dollar for dollar, through University dollars and donor support for each student and ensuring that students graduate in four years or less.

As the program evolves, its core mission remains the same: to empower students, keep education accessible and attainable and prepare graduates who are ready to make a positive impact in the world. Through these comprehensive initiatives, BGSU and Thompson Scholarship Programs are truly unleashing the potential of every student.

The success of Thompson Scholarship Programs is a collaborative effort that extends beyond the campus. Alumni, donors and community members play a crucial role in sustaining and enhancing these initiatives. By supporting Thompson Scholarship Programs, they are investing in the future of countless students and contributing to a legacy of excellence and service.

"We invite everyone to be a part of this journey and create good with us, alongside the Thompsons,” Hiser said. "Your support helps us provide the resources and opportunities that our students need to succeed. Together, we can create a brighter future for our scholars and our community."

For more information about Thompson Scholarship Programs at BGSU and to apply or contribute, visit the BGSU Thompson Scholarship Programs webpage.