New partnerships build on Lawrence’s longstanding Wisconsin connections and recognize the achievements of college-ready students
Lawrence University is deepening its investment in Wisconsin communities by expanding its Direct Admission Partnership program to more schools across the state.
The effort builds on the university’s Direct Admission Partnership with Appleton Area School District, announced in 2025, which created a direct pathway to Lawrence for qualifying college-ready students. Since then, Lawrence has established partnerships with Winneconne High School, Kaukauna High School, Wayland Academy and Hmong American Peace Academy, with additional partnerships under development.
“We know Wisconsin schools are preparing talented students everyday for their next step in education,” said Robert Nowak, Vice President for Enrollment Management at Lawrence. “We want to build on that work by recognizing students who have demonstrated academic achievement and college-readiness and give them a direct path to a nationally recognized liberal arts university.”
Through the partnership, schools identify qualifying students, support them to opt-in, and coordinate opportunities for students to visit Lawrence during their junior year. For students, the partnership offers an opportunity to being exploring Lawrence earlier in their college search. They can visit campus, meet faculty and learn more about student life.
In return, Lawrence offers qualifying students a streamlined admission process, individualized support, and a generous annual scholarship commitment, with additional merit- and need-based aid available.
The expansion is part of broader efforts by Lawrence to strengthen its relationships with the communities it has served for generations. Lawrence has deep roots in the Fox Cities and throughout Wisconsin, where over 10,000 Lawrentians have gone on to live, work, and contribute to the communities around them.
“We have a deep connection to this region and to Wisconsin,” said Emma Kane ’13, Director of School and University Partnerships at Lawrence. “Expanding Direct Admission Partnerships is a really intentional way for us to deepen those relationships and work alongside schools to recognize what their students have accomplished and invest in the next generation of Lawrentians.”
Lawrence will continue building Direct Admission Partnerships with high schools throughout the Fox Valley, across Wisconsin, and nationally.
