Sharon Whalen Memorial Scholarship established at Calvin University
The scholarship is in memory of alumna Sharon Whalen and is available to any Calvin University student to help them continue their education.
Calvin University has received $3.2 million to establish the Sharon Whalen Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship is available to all students at the university who are in need of financial assistance to complete their education. Sharon graduated from Calvin University in 1971.
According to an article on Calvin University's website, Jodi Cole Muyskens, who serves as the senior director of the Named Scholarship Program, was quoted as saying, “The new Sharon Whalen Memorial Scholarship empowers Calvin to support students where the need is greatest. This gift will significantly expand our financial aid resources, promote academic success, and ensure talented individuals have access to a transformative education. The ripple effect of this generosity will be felt for generations as recipients go on to lead, serve, and innovate in their communities and beyond.”
Sharon’s life was marked by lifelong exploration. After graduating from Calvin University in 1971 with a bachelor degree in English, she and her husband Bob spent much of their time in Canada and in the western part of the United States. At different points in her life, she served as an editor, librarian, teacher, and a blaster in mountains in Colorado and Wyoming. She enjoyed reading, singing, gardening, and yoga. Together with her husband, she co-founded a company that worked on oilfield cleanups. The couple deeply valued education and chose to leave part of their estate to their respective education institutions.
Ken Erffmeyer, the university’s vice president for advancement, said, “At Calvin University, we are truly blessed and deeply grateful for the generous contribution from the Robert and Sharon Whalen estate. This incredible gift will make a significant impact on our students’ lives, empowering them to pursue their educational dreams and make a positive difference in the world. As stewards of this legacy, we are committed to nurturing the hearts and minds of our students, grounded in faith and dedicated to serving Christ in all we do.”
In order to be eligible for the Sharon Whalen Memorial Scholarship, a student simply needs to fill out the application. The scholarship is available to all students. It awards multiple $3,000 scholarships beginning with the Fall 2026 semester. The goal of the scholarship is to give more people the ability to pursue education with fewer financial barriers.
“[Sharon] cherished the thought of sharing possibilities with young people, encouraging the love of God and of learning. May her memory be a blessing,” said her lifelong friend, Sara Huizinga.
For more information about Calvin University, visit the school’s website.