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The Ruth G. Wintermyer Memorial Endowed Scholarship was created to assist WMU undergraduate Â鶹´«Ã½s seeking a degree in art education. Ruth's husband, Dr. Robert L. Wintermyer, established the fund as a tribute to his wife's dedication to teaching, volunteer service and inspiring children through artistic endeavors.  For nearly a decade beginning in the mid-1970's, Ruth Wintermyer traveled to fourth-grade classrooms in the Midland Public Schools, working with youngsters on numerous art education projects. Even after the Midland schools discontinued the program, Ruth remained active in the community's well being, volunteering extensively with the local American Red Cross, the Literacy Council of Midland, the Midland Music Society and the Midland County Cancer Services.  Prior to her arrival in Midland, Ruth was an elementary school art teacher in Wexford School District. located just north of Pittsburgh. Through the establishment of the Ruth Wintermyer scholarship, a lasting tribute has been made in recognition of Ruth's talents and accomplishments.  

The former Ruth Ann Gordon attended the Indiana University of Pennsylvania receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in art education. She was employed with the North Allegheny School District in Wexford, Pennsylvania, as an elementary art teacher.  In 1963, she married Robert L. Wintermyer. They shared a love of traveling in the United States, New Zealand, and Canada. Ruth loved painting and pottery.  After moving to Midland Michigan, she offered her techniques in art by volunteering at Siebert Elementary School, doing monthly art appreciation presentations to the fourth grade classes. Ruth received many special recognition awards to include the American Red Cross Good Neighbor Award in 1982, as well as other Red Cross Appreciation Awards. Ruth also received the Literacy Council of Midland Award in 1999 and the Distinguished Friends of Midland Community Cancer Service Award in 2000.  Ruth passed away in 2011 after a courageous fight against cancer at the age of 60.

Interestingly, neither Robert nor Ruth Wintermyer have any formal connections to Â鶹´«Ã½. However, when Robert began looking for ways to remember his wife, it became clear that the WMU Art Education program was a most appropriate vehicle for this tribute. Robert was impressed that WMU's program is quite broad based, and seemed very well geared toward preparing Â鶹´«Ã½s who aspire to teach art.  The Frostic School of Art remains grateful to the Wintermyer's for their generosity. 

APPLICATION DEADLINE

• January 15, 2025

AWARD AMOUNT

• Amount varies from year to year
• Multiple awards
• Scholarships are effective for the duration of the next academic year. One-half during the fall semester and one-half during the spring semester.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

• Enrolled full time art majors as a sophomore, junior or senior.
• GPA of 3.0 or above
• Preference is given B.F.A Â鶹´«Ã½s who intend to become art teachers
• Preference is given to those who demonstrate financial need (must file FAFSA)

APPLICATION PROCESS

• Prepare five studio images and/or video files or a writing sample for art history majors
• Artist Statement
• Eligible Â鶹´«Ã½s must file a FAFSA form (free application for federal Â鶹´«Ã½ aid) for next school year to determine if you quality for financial need
• Submit applications online through SlideRoom