Tuesday, May. 20, 2025
At United Way of the Columbia-Willamette, we believe that leadership starts with service - and we’re proud to partner with institutions that share that vision. This spring, we announced an exciting new four-year partnership with Warner Pacific University Athletics to support student-athletes who lead not just in competition, but in character and community.
Through a $290,000 donation, United Way is funding two undergraduate scholarship programs: the United Way of the Columbia-Willamette Scholarship and the Champions of Character Scholarship. These awards are designed to recognize and invest in young leaders who are committed to integrity, service, and social good - on campus and beyond.
Two Scholarships, One Purpose: Championing Leaders
The United Way of the Columbia-Willamette Scholarship provides $5,000 per year for four years to five incoming first-year student-athletes. Recipients must be full-time students who are active in approved NAIA leadership programs and varsity athletics - reflecting the balance of academic achievement, athletic excellence, and leadership potential.
The Champions of Character Scholarship celebrates one male and one female student-athlete annually, each receiving a $5,000 award. These students are nominated by their coaches for exemplifying the NAIA Core Values: integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. Final selections are made by a Warner Pacific committee including the Athletic Director, Faculty Athletics Representative, and Sports Information Director.
In Spring 2025, Warner Pacific proudly announced the first Champions of Character honorees:
- Elliot McClafferty (Men’s Soccer)
- Rachel Behn (Softball)
Both student-athletes were recognized for their excellence not only in sport and academics, but also for their impact in the community.
A Shared Commitment to the Future
The partnership was formally launched with the signing of a Donor Gift Agreement between United Way President and CEO Kelly O’Lague and Warner Pacific President Dr. Brian L. Johnson earlier this spring.
United Way leadership recently visited Warner Pacific’s campus to meet with Acting President Doug Wade and the Executive Cabinet. The visit included a guided tour, a hosted board meeting, and a celebratory lunch to mark the beginning of this shared mission. “This partnership is about more than scholarships,” said O’Lague. “It’s about empowering a new generation of changemakers - young people who will grow into mentors, role models, and advocates for equity across our region.”
Aligning Values to Build Stronger Communities
Warner Pacific has long cultivated leadership among its student-athletes. This partnership enhances that mission, providing tangible support to students who are already making a difference - and who will continue to lead in classrooms, neighborhoods, and workplaces throughout our region.
At United Way, we’re honored to invest in students who embody our values and demonstrate the power of service in action. With support from these scholarships, they’ll be better equipped to pursue their goals - and to help create a more just, thriving community for all.