Campaign update

Campaign objectives

Campaign overview

Give now

Why UW-Eau Claire needs your support

Ways to give

Foundation board
of directors

Contact us

"As an older student I look at things differently. Without [my benefactors'] support, I would not have made it."

Q&A with Deborah Chopper:

Background: I am a senior nursing major. I have received the following scholarships through the UW-Eau Claire Foundation: Patricia H. Anderson Memorial PEO Chapter AP Scholarship, Lopas-Cicenas Family Scholarship, Single Parent Scholarship, E. Louise Carter Scholarship and the Ormsby L. Harry Scholarship. In August I participated in a clinical experience at the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota . I am president of the Eau Claire Student Nurses Association, vice president of Sigma Gamma Zeta II, a nontraditional student organization, and a former member of the International Education and Global Health Committee.

Why I chose UW-Eau Claire: It was a huge leap of faith for me to go back to school at 40 as a single parent with two teenage sons at home. I took night classes for three years to make sure I was making the right decision. UW-Eau Claire just felt like the right place for me. The faculty has been very supportive. It was important that I obtain my bachelor of science nursing degree so I would have increased flexibility in the workplace and the possibility of pursuing graduate studies.

My postgraduation goals: I still am not sure. I am interested in hospice nursing. I enjoy the elderly and I love their stories. My experience on the Rosebud Reservation made me consider Indian health services. There is a great need for nursing with American Indian populations. Whatever I finally decide, I know I will be involved in patient advocacy. My patients come first, and their rights and protection are very important to me.

How donors' generosity has made a difference in my life: I don't know if I would have made it through the program without their financial support. It is a real morale boost to have someone saying they believe in what you are doing and are willing to help you achieve it.

What I'd like to tell my benefactors: I wish many times I could meet them and tell them how very much I appreciate their generosity. As an older student I look at things differently. Without their support, I would not have made it. It is challenging going back to school when you are older and have a family depending on you. The support I have received has made this wonderful opportunity possible.