Frampton/Wood Family Scholarship

Scholarship Criteria: At the time of the award, eligible student recipients shall be enrolled as full-time students, demonstrate financial need, and represent the high ideals of the Mission, Vision, and Values of the University of Northwestern.

Scholarship Story:

The Frampton/Wood Family Scholarship was established in 2005 by Jim and Sharon Frampton and Judy Wood. The scholarship reflects the family's desire to help students who demonstrate financial need and to support the mission of the University of Northwestern – St. Paul.

The scholarship traces its roots to the life and legacy of Opal M. (Olson) Pietrowski, a beloved cousin in the family's extended network. Following Opal's passing in 2005, cousins Sharon Frampton and Judy Wood received a portion of her estate. As they considered how best to use those resources, they chose to create an endowed scholarship that would help students pursue their educational goals while honoring Opal's memory.

For the Frampton and Wood families, the decision felt both natural and meaningful. Opal and her husband, Joseph, never had children of their own, and establishing a scholarship provided an opportunity to invest in future generations. The family wanted a lasting way to help young people and create opportunities for students who might otherwise face financial barriers to higher education.

The family's connection to the University of Northwestern also played an important role in the creation of the scholarship. Sharon and Jim's oldest daughter, Sherri, attended Northwestern, and the family was grateful for the positive experience she had while she was a student. Their appreciation for the university and its mission helped confirm their desire to establish the scholarship at Northwestern.

Over the years, Jim, Sharon, and Judy have continued to support the scholarship and take joy in knowing that it assists students in need. Their commitment reflects a belief that every gift, faithfully given, can have a lasting impact on students and their futures.

Family has always been important to both the Frampton and Wood families. Together, they have been blessed with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and they understand the value of investing in the next generation. Through this scholarship, they extend that spirit of encouragement and support to Northwestern students.

The Frampton/Wood Family Scholarship continues to honor the memory of Opal Pietrowski while providing practical assistance to students who demonstrate financial need. It stands as a testament to generosity, family values, and a shared desire to help others pursue educational opportunities and prepare for lives of purpose and service.