Katrina’s Story
Katrina Ramm grew up in the Vancouver area, where she learned two important lessons early: hard work matters, and community support makes it go further. Now a business marketing major in the Carson College of Business at Washington State University Vancouver, she’s putting both lessons to work.
Scholarships like the Tom M. & Lois McBride Hougan Memorial Endowed Scholarship changed what college could look like for her. She spends much of her time at WSU Vancouver giving back. Through TRiO Student Support Services, she helps fellow students work through obstacles and find the resources they need to thrive as Cougs. TRiO Student Support Services is a federally funded program designed to support undergraduate students who are first-generation, under-resourced, and/or have documented disabilities. Its mission is to empower scholars to stay on track academically and access campus and community resources.
She recently joined the ASWSUV Elections Board to get more students involved in campus decision-making. Each role has deepened her drive to help others reach their potential.
After graduation, Katrina is weighing graduate school and a career in marketing, higher education, or student support services. Wherever she lands, she wants to pay forward the help she received. “Someone helped me when I reached out, and I want to be that person.”
Talking Cougs, Community, and Impact
“I received the Tom M. & Lois McBride Hougan Memorial Endowed Scholarship. It really helps me focus. It lessens the burden, worry, and anxiety, and has really helped me to chase my passions.”
“I work with WSU Vancouver TRiO SSS and joined the student government elections board.”
“The first week of the semester on the quad, by the water fountain. The spirit and game colors … just knowing you don’t have to do this alone makes me proud.”
“I hope to work with a program like TRiO. I want to give back and make a difference. I want to be part of a program like that.”
”I plan to pursue an MBA or a master’s degree in a related field.”
“It wasn’t easy. I was raised by a single mother, and my scholarship has helped me more than I thought possible.”
“You know you’re a Coug when you know you have someone who will stick by your side.”