Washington Co., Wi – The United Way of Washington County has selected Jesikah Becker, Executive Director of FRIENDS, Inc., as the recipient of the 2025 Ziegler Leadership Scholarship.
Established in 2016 to honor Doug and Sharon Ziegler’s enduring commitment to community leadership, the Ziegler Leadership Scholarship provides up to $5,000 annually to a nonprofit executive or emerging leader from a United Way-funded organization. The scholarship enables recipients to expand their leadership capabilities through continuing education, training, and certification programs.
“We are thrilled to support Jesikah’s professional growth through this scholarship,” said John Schiraj, Director of Community Impact at United Way of Washington County. “As someone new to the role of Executive Director, Jesikah’s commitment to strengthening her leadership skills in human resources and nonprofit financial management is exactly what the Ziegler Scholarship was designed to support.”
The scholarship was awarded following a thorough review process by the United Way Community Impact committee.
The award will support Becker’s professional development through certification programs related to Human Resources and Financial Success for Nonprofits.
“As a new Executive Director, the Ziegler Scholarship enables me to advance my education which further enhances FRIENDS’ ability to provide effective, life-changing services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence,” said Becker. “I’m excited to dive into my courses and make an even greater impact.”
Doug and Sharon Ziegler dedicated more than half a century to making Washington County a better place through volunteerism and philanthropy. Their legacy continues through this scholarship program, which aims to cultivate stronger nonprofit leadership throughout the county.
