Exciting Updates to the WHLA Scholarship Program – Now Accepting Applications for 2025!

The Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) is proud to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 WHLA Scholarship Program—and this year brings some exciting updates aimed at increasing accessibility and providing even more meaningful support for future hospitality leaders.

Updated Eligibility Criteria for 2025

In an effort to broaden access and increase inclusivity, WHLA has updated the eligibility requirements for this year’s scholarships to better support students who are working while pursuing their education.

To be eligible in 2025, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
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• Be enrolled in an accredited WHLA member college or university, pursuing a degree in a hospitality program with lodging components
   OR
• Be employed within the 2025 calendar year at a Wisconsin lodging property that is a WHLA member and enrolled in an accredited college or university (any major)

​Scholarship Awards – Now with a $1,000 Minimum!

To ensure that each scholarship has a meaningful impact, all 2025 WHLA scholarships will have a minimum award amount of $1,000. Three unique scholarship categories are available:
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• WHLA Merit Scholarship
  $2,000 total available, awarded to one or more students pursuing a career in hotel/lodging management, meeting planning, or a related field.
  
  
• Cal Worrell Memorial Scholarship
  $1,000 award, presented by the Madison Area Hotel Lodging Association (MAHLA) and the Madison Concourse Hotel & Governor’s Club, in honor of legendary general manager and WHLA leader Cal Worrell.
  
  
• Kari Zambon Memorial Scholarship
  $1,000 award, presented by Wisconsin Women in Lodging (WWIL) in memory of Kari Zambon, Northwoods innkeeper, tourism champion, and past WHLA board chair.

​Applications Due June 1, 2025

Don't miss this opportunity to be recognized and supported as a rising star in Wisconsin's hospitality industry!

Apply online and learn more at:
WisconsinLodging.org/Scholarships

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