University of Jamestown Awards Four Wilson Full-Tuition Scholarships to Students

The University of Jamestown has awarded four students its Wilson Scholarship, the campus’ highest academic prize that covers 100% of tuition and is renewable for up to four years, the university announced on Feb. 19, 2026. Recipients named in the 2025–2026 Wilson Scholarship Program are Baylen Erdmann of Auburn, Washington; Hayden Kok of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Mara Kempel of Stirum, North Dakota; and Kali Fike of Harvey, North Dakota.

The university’s announcement and catalog materials describe the award as the top academic honor and note its long history. “For over 30 years, the Wilson Scholarship has recognized exceptional high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and strong character.” University materials also state, “Named in honor of former UJ president Dr. John L. Wilson,” while the undergraduate catalog references the scholarship as “established in memory of the late Dr. and Mrs. John L. Wilson.” The catalog groups the Wilson and Distinguished Scholarships as “the most prestigious awards given by the University of Jamestown to incoming freshmen.”

UJ’s news post grouped the winners by month of selection: Baylen Erdmann and Hayden Kok were reported as January recipients, while Mara Kempel and Kali Fike were reported as winners from “this past November’s competition.” Erdmann will study Mechanical Engineering and intends to play on the Jimmie Football team. Kok will major in Exercise Science and will compete on the Jimmie Softball team. Kempel will major in Exercise Science and was noted as “the third consecutive Wilson Scholar from Lisbon High School.” Fike plans to major in Nursing.

Financial context underlining the awards was provided in the announcement. Published annual tuition at UJ is $24,720, and total cost of attendance including housing, meals and fees is $36,508. UJ states that “Every full-time undergraduate receives financial aid, reducing the average annual tuition to approximately $16,000,” and that the university awards more than $12.5 million in scholarships and grants each year. “Families often ask what college really costs,” said Greg Ulland, Vice President of Enrollment Management. “At UJ, the answer is simple: no student pays full tuition. Our financial aid commitment makes private education accessible and life changing.”

External scholarship listings echo core mechanics: Fastweb lists the Wilson Scholarship at University of Jamestown as covering 100% of tuition, with four awards available and a deadline that “varies,” and cites eligibility of a 3.5 GPA or a 24 ACT / SAT 1160 for consideration. UJ’s catalog notes academic tuition scholarships to incoming freshmen and transfer students range from $6,000 to full tuition and that institutional scholarships are renewable for four years for students enrolled full-time.

Prospective applicants or community members seeking details can contact the Office of Admission at admission@uj.edu or (701) 252-3467, or visit the Jamestown campus at 6000 College Lane, Jamestown, ND 58405. The four Wilson Scholars announced Feb. 19 are part of the 2025–2026 program that will reduce or eliminate tuition for each recipient through their undergraduate studies.