The Tomé Scholars to Fellows Program is one of UW’s premier scholarships in the Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources. Students of exceptional talent who are enrolled in science, technology, engineering, arts, or math (STEAM) degrees receive a full-ride four-year scholarship and experiential learning opportunities.  

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“It’s something that completely changed my life,” says recipient Iris Kurz of Dallas, Texas, who is studying environment and natural resources and environmental systems science. “I can do all the amazing things that I’ve always wanted to do. It’s all been through my own hard work and the generosity of the people around me.” 

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 The program was established at UW in 2021 with a major gift from alums Carol and Ramon Tomé through their Tomé Foundation. This year, the Tomés gave an additional major gift, multiplying the program’s impact. The new position will coordinate with the UW Alumni Association to create the Tomé Fellows Alumni Network, where scholars can stay connected with one another after graduating. 

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“The new gift will enable us to double the number of Tomé Scholars, such that we will have two dozen or more students on campus who are committed to making a difference—students who are excited about complex environmental challenges and who understand the need for interdisciplinary approaches and partnerships to find solutions,” says John Koprowski, dean of the Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources. 

Carol currently serves as CEO of UPS. Ramon served as an environmental specialist for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Air Protection Branch. The Tomés have given generously to UW since 1995. Their philanthropy includes the Marian H. Rochelle Gateway Center, the Mick and Susie McMurry High Altitude Performance Center, and the UW Alumni Association. 

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 In spring 2025, UW celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of Tomé Scholars—graduates who are already applying their skills to some of today’s most pressing challenges.