posted
on 2/18/2026
in
BLOGS from St. Anthony
Helen and Andy Schmitz were lifelong farmers shaped by hard times and strong values. They grew up during the Great Depression and lost their father at a young age, leaving their mother to raise 10 children while managing the family farms. From early on, they learned the importance of hard work and education — principles that continue to guide these awards today.
In their later years, both Helen and Andy spent time in nursing homes and quickly recognized the difference compassionate, skilled caregivers can make. Their experiences reinforced how critical health care professionals are, especially during moments of vulnerability and healing. That belief helped inspire their decision to invest in the future of health care.
The idea for the scholarships grew out of conversations Tom had with Helen and Andy as he helped care for them as they got older. They talked often about what they hoped their resources could support and how they wanted to give back. “At some point, my uncle said rather than bricks and mortar, we need to invest in the future of health care,” Tom said. “What better way to use their money than to fund scholarships for health care professionals?”
These awards reflect Helen and Andy’s shared values — a respect for education, a deep appreciation for medical providers and a strong desire to give back. Funded through Helen’s estate and a charitable trust established by Andy, they help students pursuing careers in health care, easing the financial burden of their education.
For Tom, reading applications and seeing students benefit from this support is especially meaningful. A former educator, he values the opportunity to help motivated young people focus on their studies without the added stress of tuition costs. “I know Uncle Andy and Aunt Helen would be thrilled to see the money being used this way,” he said.
Through these scholarships, the Schmitz family’s legacy continues to grow, nurturing the dreams of students pursuing careers in health care. The St. Anthony Foundation is deeply grateful for their generosity, vision, and enduring commitment to our hospital and community.
To learn more about the St. Anthony Foundation’s healthcare scholarships, click here. Our 2026 scholarship applications are now open through Friday, March 27.
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2024 Scholarship Winners:
Addesyn Hocker and Aaron Olsen |
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2025 Scholarship Winners:
Serena Hinners and Owen Ferneding |