WC Wisconsin News

Emma Blackdeer, a neuroscience major at Viterbo University, has been named the first recipient of the Dr. Joan Gennrich ’60 Endowed Medical School Scholarship. The scholarship was established through a $1.267 million gift from the estate of Dr. Joan Gennrich, who graduated from Viterbo in 1960 and later worked in emergency medicine in Chicago.

The scholarship will provide Blackdeer with nearly $60,000 to support her pursuit of a medical career. She will receive $8,000 for her senior year at Viterbo and an estimated $12,500 annually for four years of medical school, depending on the fund’s annual earnings. An additional $1,000 is allocated to help cover future admission exam costs.

“I am very honored and grateful to receive this scholarship,” said Blackdeer. “It means so much to me that my professors believe in my potential to make a difference in the medical field. It continues to inspire me to keep working hard and striving toward my goals.”

Blackdeer graduated from Sparta High School before enrolling at Viterbo University. During her time as a student, she has participated in several organizations including Honors Board, STEM Club, Tri Beta, Servant Leadership Club, and Service Saturdays program. She also took part in the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) program where she conducted research on detecting fentanyl in La Crosse using wastewater-based epidemiology.

Viterbo science faculty member Chris Mayne commented on Blackdeer's achievements: “Emma is a humble and incredibly hardworking student with the unique ability to form connections with people of all backgrounds. I have no doubt she will be successful in her goal of becoming an outstanding physician who makes a meaningful impact on all her patients, and she is an ideal recipient for this scholarship.”

Dr. Gennrich designated her estate gift for scholarships “in appreciation of excellent education I received at Viterbo University.” After earning her degree from Viterbo, Gennrich founded Wisconsin’s first freestanding emergicenter and opened another three years later.

“Receiving this scholarship carries a special meaning because Dr. Gennrich had an inspiring journey into medicine and a lifelong commitment to patient care,” said Blackdeer. “Her mission and values motivate me to use my own medical journey to continue to serve others with the same passion and dedication. Having Dr. Gennrich as a role model for what a physician should be gives me the confidence and inspiration to continue her legacy.”