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Jasper Strassenfest Half Pot powers VU Jasper Foundation scholarship

Five people pose while holding a large $37,653.61 presentation check from Jasper Strassenfest to the VUJ Foundation in front of a VU logo.

From left to right: Corie Eckerle (Strassenfest Chairperson), Dan Fritch (VU Jasper Foundation Board President), Gary Schnell (VU Jasper Foundation Board Member), Dr. Travis Madison (VU Jasper Assistant Vice President and Dean), and Austin Welp (Assistant Director of Special Projects/VU Jasper Advancement and Strassenfest Half Pot Chairperson).

October 12, 2026

JASPER, Ind. - The Vincennes University Jasper Foundation Scholastic Excellence Award will continue supporting local high school graduates with higher education opportunities thanks to a nearly $38,000 contribution from the Jasper Strassenfest on Sept. 29.

The Scholastic Excellence Award, now in its eighth cohort, is a one-year, full-tuition (up to 15 credit hours) scholarship that supports local high school graduates in a seven-county radius who attend VU Jasper.

VU Jasper Foundation Board President Dan Fritch said, “The VU Jasper Foundation is grateful for our continued partnership with the Strassenfest Committee and the success of this year’s Strassenfest Half Pot. Through our collaborative efforts, the proceeds received by the Foundation will directly support scholarships for local students pursuing their education at Vincennes University Jasper. We sincerely thank the Strassenfest Committee, everyone who purchased a ticket, and all who helped make this year’s Half Pot a success.”

The Half Pot surpassed $150,000 for the second consecutive year in 2026, and allocated $37,653.61 to the VU Jasper Foundation to help students begin their college education at VU Jasper without the burden of out-of-pocket costs or student loans. The Foundation will offer seven to nine local students this award, thanks to this year’s funding.

Since starting the Scholastic Excellence Award in 2019, the VU Jasper Foundation has provided more than $500,000 in funding to over 150 students. To ensure academic success, award recipients also receive a $500 book stipend each semester and a complimentary laptop.

The Jasper Strassenfest Committee announced that the remaining funds will support participating nonprofit organizations in times of emergency and build a strong financial foundation for the continued growth of the Strassenfest and the Jasper community.

The Half Pot winning ticket was worth more than $75,000. The winner was an anonymous individual from Jasper.

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