Augustana University Student Named 2026 Truman Scholar

Augustana University student Jessalyn Wienk '27 is one of 55 college students nationwide to receive the 2026 Truman Scholar Award. Wienk is the 11th Augustana student to win the award in Augustana's history and the first honored since 2020.

Truman Scholars are selected for their outstanding leadership potential and their commitment to a career in government or the nonprofit sector. Each Truman Scholar receives funding for leadership training, graduate studies, career counseling, as well as internship and fellowship opportunities within the federal government.

"It's a real honor to have won this award," said Wienk. "Augustana has played a huge role in my growth, and I owe a lot to the professors who have invested in me."

Wienk, a double major in religion - the interreligious studies track - and international studies, was selected from a pool of 781 candidates from 305 colleges and universities. The De Smet, South Dakota, native believes that the program will support her path to graduate school and connect her to a network of people who work in public service.

"Those relationships matter," said Wienk. "Public service is not something you do alone - it's built on collaboration, mentorship and trust. The Truman community will help me grow into the kind of professional who can navigate complex challenges thoughtfully and responsibly."

After completing her bachelor's degree at Augustana, Wienk plans to apply for a Fulbright Scholarship to teach English in Jordan, while continuing her Arabic studies. She also hopes to pursue a master's degree in international affairs at Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). Wienk said Augustana and her family are to thank for her success and bold dreams.

"When I came back to South Dakota after the military, I didn't have a clear plan - I just knew I wanted to be closer to family and continue my education," said Wienk, who served in the U.S. Army from 2019-23. "Choosing Augustana turned out to be one of the best decisions I've made. It's a place where I've been challenged, supported and able to grow into who I am now."

Dr. David Golemboski, associate professor of government & international affairs and Augustana Truman Scholar faculty representative, said that Wienk's confidence is an inspiration to others, making her the perfect recipient of the Truman Scholarship.

"Jessalyn is truly an excellent student who is impressive for her drive and determination in connecting her academic study to experiences around the world," Golemboski said. "Jessalyn stands out as a leader who creates opportunities for herself and pursues them fearlessly. She has a deep commitment to public service at a global scale, and I have no doubt that she will make the world a better, more humane place as her career unfolds."

For Wienk, the program is about more than just professional success - it's about a shared commitment to serving others, both within the campus community and around the world.

"Being part of this small group of Truman Scholars from Augustana feels meaningful. It makes me proud to represent the university, and it also reinforces that even a path that doesn't look traditional can still lead somewhere purposeful," she said.

Candidates for the Truman scholarship go through a rigorous, multi-stage selection process. They were recommended by 17 independent selection panels based on the finalists' academic success and leadership accomplishments. A listing of the 55 Scholars can be found on the Truman Foundation's website.