September 14, 2026
For Charleigh Frederick (Class of 2019), graduating from Denfeld High School was just the opening chapter of a deeply inspiring story. Driven by a passion for the written word, Charleigh set her sights on the prestigious Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, where she earned her BFA in Writing in Spring 2024. Today, she is continuing her literary journey, actively pursuing her MFA at Hamline University!
More Than Financial Support
Moving across the country to pursue a degree in the arts is a massive leap, but the Armond Hauge Scholarship helped bridge the gap. Beyond easing the financial burden of attending an out-of-state institution, the scholarship delivered something equally powerful: a clear sign that her hometown believed in her.
“Getting the Hauge made going out of state for school less of a financial burden on me,” Charleigh reflects. “It also gave me a sense that my community supported me and saw potential in me, which was extremely uplifting.”
Compassion During Unexpected Challenges
Life doesn’t always go according to plan, and in the fall of 2019—during her very first semester away—Charleigh faced a major hurdle. She became extremely ill with gastroparesis and had to take a medical leave of absence from Pratt.
During a stressful and vulnerable moment, the team behind the Hauge Scholarship stepped up with unwavering empathy and care.
“The scholarship people were so nice and understanding—it made me feel like I wasn’t alone and that we were going to figure it all out,” says Charleigh. “The Hauge scholarship helped cover what I couldn’t get back while I took time to get the care I needed. That support helped me have the courage to go back to school and finish my degree.”
Accountability to Reach New Heights
Returning to school after a health crisis takes incredible grit. Throughout her time at Pratt, the regular, supportive check-ins from the scholarship committee provided a steady framework of encouragement that kept Charleigh motivated to give her absolute best every single semester.
All that work has paid off too, as Charleigh has become a prolific writer. Find signed copies of all her books (“Demon Scout”, “Rule 25: Don’t Fall for the Target”, “Unidentified Flying Demon” and (coming in late October) “Rule 26: Keep Your Enemies Close” at The Bookstore at Fitgers.
Continuing the Journey
Armond Hauge’s vision was built on lifting up Denfeld students through life’s triumphs and challenges alike. Charleigh’s perseverance, coupled with her ongoing academic achievements at Hamline University, is a testament to what happens when talent meets strong community backing.
We are so proud of everything Charleigh has accomplished and can’t wait to read the work she continues to share with the world! Keep inspiring us, Charleigh!
Are You a Hauge Scholar? Share Your Story!
Has the Armond Hauge Scholarship shaped your own journey? Help us honor Mr. Hauge’s incredible 100th birthday milestone by sharing your personal story or a message of gratitude! Visit our Foundation Stories Archive to explore more inspiring Hauge scholar spotlights.