Zimmermann scholarship assists UW-Madison student

The family of the late University of Wisconsin–Madison student Brittany Zimmermann has awarded a scholarship to financially assist a UW–Madison freshman from Marshfield, Wis.

The Zimmermann family, Dean of Students Lori Berquam and the UW–Madison community are all remembering Zimmermann, ahead of what would have been her 23rd birthday on Sunday, Nov. 15.

Twenty-one-year-old Zimmermann, of Marshfield, was killed in 2008 in her downtown apartment. She was a UW–Madison student majoring in medical microbiology and immunology and had a career goal of becoming a doctor.

The first scholarship was awarded earlier this year in an emotional ceremony at Marshfield High School. The recipient, who has plans to explore a career in medicine or possibly optometry, says she is extremely honored by the award and the chance to follow in Zimmermann’s footsteps at UW–Madison.

“We have been blessed with amazing support from our family, friends and community,” says Jean Zimmermann, Brittany’s mother. “It is because of the generosity of those individuals that we are able to remember Brittany’s passion for learning and we were able to present the first Brittany Zimmermann scholarship earlier this year. Being able to provide financial assistance to an individual demonstrating the drive and dedication to learning that Brittany had has been an incredible experience. We look forward to presenting this scholarship to many new students in the coming years.

“Brittany truly viewed Madison as her second home, and we have come to understand why she loved the UW and the city of Madison so much,” she adds. “We would again like to extend our eternal thanks to everyone who has provided support to our family over the past year and a half. As we remember our blessings, we ask all of you to honor Brittany and please remember the simple blessings in your life.”

Berquam says, “I can think of no better way to memorialize Brittany and her love of UW–Madison and education than her family assisting a fellow student from her hometown. Brittany and her family remain in our hearts and thoughts.”

Contributions to the fund may be sent to “Dollars for Brittany” scholarship fund, care of the Marshfield Medical Center Credit Union, P.O. Box 279, Marshfield, WI 54449.

Questions about donating to the fund can be directed to the Marshfield Medical Center Credit Union at 715-387-8686.

The investigation into Zimmermann’s death is still an open investigation actively pursued by the Madison Police Department. Anyone with information about the case is urged to call Crime Stoppers at 608-266-6014.