THOMAS DRAZ MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT SCHOLARSHIP

Thomas A. Draz was an instructor in the IT-Network Specialist Program. As a teacher, most recently at Chippewa Valley Technical College, Thomas worked to inspire his students to achieve their career goals. He found his love for teaching while serving his country in the United States Army. He had a special way of connecting with student veterans. After the passing of both his father and father-in-law, he set up scholarships in their honor to help his students realize their own potential. Thomas did not let personal adversity stop him from achieving his goals. Despite suffering health setbacks, Thomas realized his dream of finishing an IRONMAN triathlon in 2015. That drive didn’t end there, as he was training for an IRONMAN at the time of his passing. Never putting the focus on himself, Thomas used his participation in triathlons to bring awareness to many local and global causes, becoming an inspiration to his teammates and fellow triathletes. Tom’s family established this endowment in Tom’s memory to continue his legacy of selfless giving to others. “Don’t let your past hardships keep you from realizing your dreams.”