Scholarship Helps Student Reach Her Goals

Hailey Huggins
Major: Organizational Leadership
Minor: Philosophy

Hailey Huggins always knew college was the path to a better life. Were it not for the generosity of a donor, that dream may have failed to become a reality.

From a young age, the Muscatine native endured a difficult family situation. By the time she was in high school, circumstances drove her to move out of her parents' home. As a result, she had to care for herself independently.

"Ever since I was little, I saw my life and realized that it wasn't how I wanted it to be," Hailey says. "I thought, 'I'm going to change things.'" She was determined to go to college despite the obstacles that stood in her way.

Hailey says she fell in love with UNI from her first campus visit and applied the next day. Without assistance from her family, she knew it would be nearly impossible to pay for her education alone. Thanks to a scholarship from the Bright Foundation, she didn't have to.

"I can't even describe it," Hailey says of receiving the scholarship. "It was life-changing."

That financial assistance has helped Hailey pursue her dream of going to law school by way of UNI's pre-law program. It also inspired her to take on leadership roles and give back through mentoring and volunteering. She empowers young women through UNI's Women in Business program, and for the past two years has led a fundraising drive to purchase Christmas gifts for local families in need.

"It's important that donors understand how much of an impact they have on students," Hailey says. "Especially those who are passionate and have goals they want to reach but don't have the financial means to do so."

You can ensure deserving students like Hailey have access to a UNI education. Contact Jane Halverson at (319) 273-4665 or jane.halverson@uni.edu to learn how today.