September 10, 2026
As we approach September 2nd—what would have been the 100th birthday of Armond Hauge, the Greater Denfeld Foundation’s largest benefactor—we are reconnecting with some of the hundreds of Denfeld High School graduates whose lives were changed by his incredible legacy.
Today, we are thrilled to feature Hanna West, a 2020 Denfeld High School graduate who leveraged the Hauge Scholarship to pursue her passions, travel the world, and build a thriving career in luxury interior design.
Paving the Way as a First-Generation College Student
Transitioning from high school to a four-year university is a major milestone, but for Hanna, it came with added unique challenges.
“I was the first in my immediate family to attend a four-year university,” Hanna recalls. “Especially going out of state, there were additional financial needs. Receiving the Hauge Scholarship gave me a sense of peace and comfort, knowing some of that financial burden had been lifted.”
With the support of the Hauge Scholarship, Hanna attended her top-choice school, Iowa State University. Over the course of four years, she immersed herself in her studies, pushing through tough challenges and expanding her horizons. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design.
From Hunter High to Rome
One of the most transformative chapters of Hanna’s college career happened during her junior year, when she achieved a lifelong dream: spending a semester studying abroad in Rome, Italy.
“The Hauge Scholarship played a direct role in this because it helped fund my college career, enabling me to take advantage of extra opportunities that came my way,” Hanna shares. “Studying abroad provided me with so many amazing experiences, including seeing other cultures and historical architecture that I would have otherwise not seen.”
Designing a Dream Career
Hanna’s dedication and education quickly translated into professional success. After graduating from Iowa State, she secured her first position with a design-build firm in Des Moines, Iowa, specializing in high-end residential remodels. Over six years, she worked her way up to become a Lead Designer—an achievement she says she could only dream of back in high school.
Fast forward to today: Hanna and her partner have relocated to Indiana, where she works for a luxury interior design firm in Carmel, helping design stunning custom residences across the greater Indianapolis area.
“The projects I get to work on today are a dream—the kind of work I used to only read about in design magazines,” says Hanna. “The Hauge Scholarship really helped to open my eyes and expand what I thought was possible for my future. It pushed me to think outside the box and to keep going when I thought I wouldn’t make it.”
A Letter of Thanks
Looking back at her journey from Denfeld High School to designing luxury homes, Hanna credits the foundation and Armond Hauge’s generosity with helping lay the groundwork for her accomplishments.
“I believe that receiving this scholarship at my graduation from Denfeld was a crucial stepping stone to where I am today. I am beyond lucky to have had the support I did to get me to where I currently am.”
Are You a Hauge Scholar? Share Your Story!
Armond Hauge’s frugal habits allowed him to leave a legacy that continues to transform the lives of Denfeld alumni like Hanna. As we celebrate his 100th birthday, we want to hear from you!
If you or someone you know received a Hauge Scholarship, please consider filling out our Hauge Scholarship Reconnect Form to share how it impacted your journey.