Wright State University Foundation awards 11 Students First Fund projects

Eleven student-focused initiatives — ranging from wellness and professional development to inclusive leadership and campus spirit — received 2025 Students First Fund grants from the Wright State University Foundation.

The foundation increased the total funds from $50,000 to $75,000 this year, allowing it to support a broader range of impactful projects at the Dayton and Lake campuses. Select projects are designed to support student-centered projects that enhance engagement and academic success.

“The breadth of ideas this year — from health care to leadership development to supporting academic success — the Students First Fund applications truly demonstrate that Wright State is thinking boldly about their future and their students’ success,” said Doug Hull, incoming chair of the foundation’s Grants Committee.

Here’s a snapshot of the funded projects:

Medical and Surgical Exploration: A mentorship-driven experience to expose pre-health students to real-world clinical and surgical environments, encouraging hands-on learning and stronger faculty-student collaboration.

Preservice Teacher Expo: A professional development event that connects education majors with experienced teachers and mentors through workshops and panels, boosting career readiness in teacher education.

Established Leader Retreat: Re-Imagine: A refreshed version of the successful leadership retreat, focusing on team building, strategic leadership and training for campus leaders and student organizations.

Supplies for Success: Provides critical classroom supplies and learning kits to students facing financial challenges, supporting academic preparedness.

E Pluribus Pre-Health: Designed to empower international pre-health students, this initiative offers culturally responsive mentoring, advising resources and faculty workshops to enhance student success.

Lake Campus Student Involvement Grant: Supports a wide range of events and student-led initiatives at the Lake Campus to increase campus engagement and co-curricular enrichment.

Health and Wellness Task Force Campaigns: A peer-led health initiative raising awareness about physical and mental health through targeted campaigns, outreach activities and campus-wide wellness resources.

Rowdy Raider Student Section: This spirited effort builds a more vibrant student presence at athletic events, fostering school pride through giveaways, marketing and organized cheering sections.

First-Gen Leaders Organization and Lounge: Provides leadership training, community-building activities and a new physical space for first-generation students to network, study and access support.

Collaborative Classroom Magic: A classroom transformation project that brings flexible, creative learning environments to life, encouraging collaboration, engagement and innovation in teaching.

Care it Forward: A peer mentorship program that connects experienced students with those facing academic or personal hurdles, creating a strong network of care and accountability.

“Each year, we’re inspired by the creativity and commitment our students, faculty and staff bring to the table,” said Scott Rash, president and CEO of the Wright State University Foundation. “The foundation is proud to support initiatives that align with university priorities, and we work closely with campus partners to ensure these projects can create lasting, meaningful impact at both our Dayton and Lake campuses.”

For more details on the Students First Fund and how to apply, visit wrightstatefoundation.org/students-first-fund.