This is a scholarship fund established at the University of Minnesota’s College of Science and Engineering for the purpose of supporting students demonstrating financial need and a wide range of multidisciplinary interests and experiences that can be applied to solve complex problems.
It was established to honor three generations of Theodore A. Olsons, all of whom had close ties to the University of Minnesota.
This fund was created in 2021 with this background statement. If this matches your philanthropic interests, here is where you can contribute.
TAO Scholarship Recipients
2024-2025 Recipient: River N.
River N.
Woodridge IL
Computer Science (prospective), 2028
River has a strong interest in computer science and envisions a career within this wide field, perhaps working for a game company.
She feels that the scholarship will allow her to focus on academic and personal goals as she transitions to college life.
2023-2025 Recipient: Israel Manna
Israel Manna
New Hope MN
Industrial Engineering, 2027
Israel hopes to go into Data Analysis or some sort of business analysis, working for a company as a consultant or a lead analyst.
Israel’s family is from the East African country of Eritrea. He feels that the scholarship will help him to “achieve my dream, my parent’s dream, and all the sacrifices they made to help me be in this position.”
2022-2025 Recipient: Monica Robles
Monica Robles
Golden Valley MN
Aerospace Engineering, 2026
On attaining her degree, Monica hopes to travel to her parent’s home country of El Salvador and join their space program. She also wishes to establish a branch that makes astronomy more accessible to the general public, as well as inspires the younger generation to pursue space exploration.
She is actively involved in various on-campus organizations such as the MnSGC Ballooning Team and the Rocketry Team, and has contributed to developing other STEM-related projects.
“Because of this opportunity, I’ve been able to dedicate enough time to my education, excel in my classes, balance my responsibilities, and even consider adding a minor in astrophysics to my degree.”