Storm Lake Scholars are students are current University of Iowa students who are first-generation college students who graduated from Storm Lake Senior High School in Storm Lake, Iowa. Created in 2014 by President Sally Mason charge to develop a program that would make it easier for students from Storm Lake to attend the university. Pathways to Excellence provides Storm Lake scholars with holistic support through academic coaching, events and community, and connection to resources. 

Although no new scholarships will be awarded after the 2025 cohort, Pathways to Excellence remains committed to supporting current Storm Lake Scholars throughout their continued journey at the University of Iowa. Scholarship renewal and student support services will continue to ensure that each scholar has the resources, guidance, and community needed to thrive academically and personally. 

This scholarship is renewable for an additional three years or until a bachelor’s degree is conferred (whichever comes first). The following requirements must be met to maintain eligibility:

• Be a first-generation college student (neither parent obtained a 4-year college degree)
• Demonstrate financial need
• Be a graduate of Storm Lake Senior High School
• File the FAFSA each year by the filing deadline, if eligible for federal aid
• Maintain continuous, full-time enrollment and a minimum 2.0 University of Iowa cumulative GPA
• Attend required meetings with the Pathways to Excellence team