The College of Natural Sciences is proud to announce the creation of the Janice L. Nerger Undergraduate Scholarship in Natural Sciences.
This scholarship was created by Dr. Glenn and Donna Boutilier (’74) as a surprise for Dean Nerger. The Boutiliers, who established two other scholarships at the college, decided to designate this scholarship to honor Nerger’s commitment to undergraduate research and education.
A legacy of giving
As scholarship recipients during their time as undergraduate students, the Boutiliers are dedicated to carrying on the legacy of giving, and have committed to supporting students.
“When I was an undergraduate student at Colorado State University, a small scholarship made a big difference to my career as a chemist,” said Glenn. “I’ve never forgotten the impact of that scholarship.”
As a first-generation student, Donna’s support from scholarships was crucial to her success. Despite her family saying college would be difficult and expensive, Donna was committed to getting an education, and was able to get by working and obtaining scholarships.
“We first heard about first-generation initiatives in the College of Natural Sciences by attending scholarship luncheons,” said Donna. “I want other students with great desire and determination to be able to go to school without money being a reason not to, especially now that scholarships are a necessity for many.”
“When Glenn and Donna told me they had established this scholarship in my name, I was both honored and overwhelmed,” said Nerger. “For a few moments I was absolutely speechless – something that is rare for me! I’m excited to see this scholarship grow and financially assist our undergraduate students for years to come.”
Said Glenn: “I hope that our contribution to the scholarship will encourage others to consider giving so that it will be able to support multiple students.”
About Dean Jan Nerger
Since her appointment as dean of the College of Natural Sciences in 2010, Nerger’s commitment to research, teaching and learning, outreach, and engagement has facilitated remarkable growth and achievement for the college. As the dean and a professor of psychology, her leadership and dedication has inspired faculty, students, and staff.
“When I met Jan, I was surprised by how down to earth, caring, and passionate she is,” said Donna Boutilier. “She passes her caring and her humanity on to the students in the College of Natural Sciences.”
Nerger is an advocate for diversity, particularly for women in science. As the co-founder of the Women in Natural Sciences organization at CSU, and a co-founder of the CSU STEM Center, she has advanced resources for underrepresented students in the college. She also serves in a number of capacities at CSU and beyond – as the president of the Council of Arts and Sciences, as chair of the STEM-Ed Deans Council, and as a member of numerous other boards and committees. In 2016, she was honored as a Colorado Woman of Influence and Dr. Joan King International Woman of Vision.
If you are interested in contributing to the Janice L. Nerger Undergraduate Scholarship in the College of Natural Sciences, please visit https://advancing.colostate.edu/JANICENERGERSCHOLARSHIP.
