Thomas A. Costello Character and Courage Award

Thomas A. Costello Character and Courage Award
This award honors the legacy of Thomas (“Tommy”) Costello (1997–2021), a UW–Madison graduate remembered for his academic excellence, resilience, mentorship, and community leadership. Tommy lived with courage and integrity, inspiring others through his achievements and his ability to overcome adversity with optimism.This scholarship recognizes UW–Madison Sophomores and Juniors who embody Tommy’s values of character, courage, and commitment to their goals.

Learn more about Tommy’s legacy and about the Foundation named in his memory.
https://www.thomasacostellolegacyfoundation.org/university-of-wisconsin-scholarship

The deadline to apply is June 1st, 2026.

Prerequisites
- Must be enrolled in the UW-Madison as an undergraduate, preferably the Wisconsin School of Business studying Finance or Risk Management or in the College of Letters and Science studying Economics as an honor student
- Must be either a Sophomore or Junior at the time of application

Application Process
Complete the google form at the URL below, which includes the following:
Write an essay (500-1,000 words) or film a short video of yourself (max 3 mins) explaining how you exemplify one or more of the below attributes that describe who Tommy was: an individual with immense courage, a person with good character and/or someone who absolutely loved their (future) career as an investment banker. Please reference the attributes section below for potential essay topics.

The selection committee will narrow the application pool based on essays/videos, then will virtually interview the finalists.

Potential essay/video attributes
​- Demonstrate academic excellence while selflessly fostering community involvement including through mentorship, volunteerism, and leadership
- Describe how you are working hard to achieve your dreams of becoming an investment banker, despite any personal barriers that you have had to overcome
- Explain how you emulate Tommy’s resilient spirit and have had to demonstrate courage while overcoming adversity in your life
- Describe how you have achieved your goals by going well beyond your comfort zone
- Elaborate on your passion for international travel and how that has given you a stronger appreciation for the gifts that you were given and your outlook on relationships and different perspectives

Please contact thomasacostellofoundation@gmail.com with any questions!

Application Deadline: June 1, 2026.