Gina Marie Rosko Memorial Scholarship

If we had one wish, it would be to have Gina here with us, laughing, dreaming, and sharing the past 25 years we didn’t get together. But while she may not be physically here, her spirit, love, and passion for life continue to shine through this scholarship in her memory.

In the immediate aftermath of Gina's passing, my family and I established this scholarship to honor her enduring legacy and provide crucial support to students embarking on their higher education journey. It provided us with purpose, a tangible way to transform our grief into something profoundly meaningful. Over the years, this scholarship has provided assistance to deserving students from Tremper High School to attend the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, the very institution where Gina pursued her own aspirations.

Thanks to the generous support of family, friends, and our compassionate community, we have successfully provided scholarships to deserving students. To ensure Gina's legacy continues to inspire and empower future generations, and to sustain this vital opportunity, we rely on your continued support.

Who Was Gina?

Gina Marie Rosko was a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew her. She had a free spirit, a contagious laugh, and a smile that could turn the gloomiest day into sunshine. She believed in dreams—her own and those of others.

Gina attended UW-Milwaukee, where she studied journalism and worked as a teaching assistant in American Indian and Ethnic Studies. In July of 2000, she took a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study abroad in Australia, a place she had always dreamed of visiting. She was having the time of her life, exploring, learning, and embracing every new experience.

Tragically, while on a road trip with friends, Gina was involved in a car accident and passed away. But her story doesn’t end there. Gina’s adventurous spirit, love for learning, and passion for life continue to inspire others through this scholarship.

Keeping Gina’s Spirit Alive

A few days after Gina’s passing, friends visited the site of the accident and saw something extraordinary—hundreds of butterflies filling the air. To our family, those butterflies became a symbol of Gina’s presence, reminding us that she is still with us, encouraging us to live fully and dream big.

By supporting this scholarship, you are helping a student take a step toward their future, just as Gina once did. You are ensuring that her love for education and adventure continues to uplift others.

How You Can Help

Your support makes a difference! Here’s how you can be a part of Gina’s legacy:

    •    Donate – Every contribution helps fund scholarships for students in need.

    •    Join her Fundraiser – Participate in an upcoming event to support the cause.

Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025 (1:00-6:00 PM)

Location: Mason’s Eatery and Pub in Kenosha, WI with the ongoing online auction and an in-person raffles, games, 50/50 & more.

    •    Create a basket or item for the In-person or Online Auctions.

   •    Spread the Word – Share Gina’s story and encourage others to get involved.

   •    More information is on the event Facebook site: https:www.facebook.com/events/1168567477807077

   •    Contact Marlene Rosko via phone/text 262-496-9225 or Ashlee Rosko 262-220-3646

Gina’s journey may have taken a different path, but her impact lives on in every student who receives this scholarship. Thank you for being a part of this mission and for keeping her memory alive in such a beautiful way. 

Sisters are forever……