Ashley and Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation Award $470,000 in Scholarships for 2024-2025
Furniture World News Desk on
9/11/2024
Pictured above: Scholarship recipients in Wisconsin.
Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC (Ashley) and the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation have
announced the distribution of over $470,000 in scholarships to 139 students for the 2024-2025 academic year. The
scholarships aim to support the education of high school seniors who are dependents of Ashley employees or employed
by the company, along with students pursuing degrees in fields such as Automation, Engineering, Information
Technology, and Manufacturing.
The Ashley Grants-in-Aid scholarships will provide $146,000 to 73 students for the upcoming school year. These
scholarships are intended for high school seniors who are dependents of Ashley employees or who work for the
company.
The Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation scholarships will distribute $330,000 to 66 students pursuing degrees in
fields across select states, particularly in technical and engineering-related disciplines.
“Growing up, I was told if your dreams don’t scare you, then they are not big enough, and one of the
biggest fears I have had of college is paying for it,” said Nathaniel Gill, an Ashley Grants-in-Aid recipient.
“With the help of this scholarship, it has allowed me to just focus on my education and not be afraid. Thank
you to Ashley for providing this opportunity.”
Scholarship recipients come from eight states, including Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Mississippi,
Florida, Texas, Montana, and California. As part of the recognition, students were invited to a special presentation
and tour of Ashley’s facilities.
“On behalf of the Allen Family, we are excited and appreciative that our son Grayson received the Grants-in-Aid
scholarship,” stated Glenwood Allen II, an Ashley employee. “Receiving this scholarship was a fantastic
way for him to be recognized and to encourage academic growth. The money received will help Grayson become the
Aerospace Engineer he desires to be.”
Since 1997, Ashley and the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation have awarded over $4 million in scholarships to more
than 2,100 students, reflecting their commitment to supporting educational initiatives and partnerships with K-12
and post-secondary institutions nationwide.
About Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC
Ashley feels that every person deserves more value for their money. Established in
1945, Ashley is the largest manufacturer of home furnishings in the world and strives to be the most innovative and
competitive home furnishings company on the planet. From design through fulfillment, Ashley is committed to delivering
the world’s best home furnishing values, selection and service, and earning the loyalty and trust of its customers every
day. Visit Ashley online at www.ashleyglobal.com.
About The Ronald and Joyce Wanek Foundation, Inc.
The Ronald and Joyce Wanek Foundation, Inc. is a philanthropic organization committed to supporting STEM (Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Math) education and other community initiatives. The foundation was established by Ronald
Wanek, founder and chairman of Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC, and his wife, Joyce. Through its various programs and
partnerships, the foundation aims to inspire and empower students to pursue careers in STEM fields, as well as improve
the quality of life in the community. The foundation is dedicated to making a positive impact on society and creating a
better future for all.