It’s time for Page Two: News that might not make the front page for Monday January 12, 2026.
The Mat-Su Health Foundation expanded eligibility requirements for its scholarship programs. It broadens access to postsecondary education for residents of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough.
The changes align the Foundation’s scholarship criteria with federal student aid standards. It opens the door to students who were previously ineligible. The Foundation Board of Directors approved the new standards in December. These scholarships are for anyone, not just high school seniors.
Foundation officials said the decision reflects the Foundation’s mission to reduce barriers to education and invest in the region’s long-term health and workforce development.
“By aligning our eligibility criteria with federal standards, we are able to reach students who have the talent and drive to succeed but may face financial obstacles,” said Adelina Rodríguez, Foundation scholarship program officer.
The scholarship program covers academic, vocational, and professional development pathways. It is a central component of the foundation’s work. Expanding access to education supports economic mobility, workforce stability, and overall community health.
According to Chief Community Impact Officer Vandana Ingle, “Increasing access to higher and continuing education ultimately strengthens our entire Mat-Su community,” she said.
Foundation academic scholarships support undergraduate and graduate degrees in healthcare and human services fields. This includes nursing, behavioral health, early childhood and special education, allied health, medical assisting, sonography, and radiologic technology.
Students may attend in- or out-of-state institutions. They must have lived in the Mat-Su for at least one year.
In 2025, the Mat-Su Health Foundation awarded $2.6 million in academic scholarships to 489 Mat-Su students. Officials expect the expanded eligibility to increase the number of applicants and the overall reach of the program.
Applications for 2026 Foundation Academic Scholarships are open through March 5. Information sessions will be held at the Mat-Su Health Foundation on January 22 and February 5 and 19. Details and applications are available at healthymatsu.org, or by calling (907) 352-2863.
Looking for other scholarship options? The Mat Su Middle College has a link to many scholarship opportunities for Mat-Su students at Scholarships.
The City Council meets tonight in a special session at 6 p.m. This meeting focuses on the golf course. Audience participation is followed by an executive session. We will post on Facebook when the executive session ends and we continue our broadcast.
The City Council Regular Meeting is tomorrow at 6 p.m. Check out the agenda on palmerak.org
The January State Of The Snowpack is on Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Blue & Gold Board Shop in Wasilla. Meet Hatcher Pass avalanche forecasters and the Skeetawk Mountain Manager. Get Hatcher Pass weather, avalanche updates, and your questions answered.
Aladdin Junior opens at the Glenn Massay theater this Friday at 7 p.m. It runs three weekends on Friday and Saturday nights and a Saturday matinee. Buy tickets at glennmasseytheater.com
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This Page Two article was written and read by Lee Henrikson. If you have an idea for a Page 2 topic, please email us at page2@radiofreepalmer.org.
That’s it for today and the news on Page Two on Monday January 12, 2026.