September 18, 2026
As the Greater Denfeld Foundation looks back on celebrating Armond Hauge’s 100th birthday on September 2, 2026, we are reflecting on how his 100 year legacy continues to lift up the newest generation of Denfeld alumni. Since 2009, Mr. Hauge’s vision has helped 403 graduates step into college with purpose, clarity, and relief from overwhelming financial weight.
For Michael Rasch (Class of 2025), receiving the Armond Hauge Scholarship meant turning what felt like an intimidating mountain into a clear, achievable path forward.
Internalizing the Difference
After graduating from Denfeld in 2025, Michael stayed close to home to tackle one of higher education’s most rigorous fields: Chemical Engineering at the University of Minnesota Duluth. Today, alongside his intensive engineering coursework, Michael works on campus as an Engineering Student Service Assistant.
For many incoming freshmen, the true cost of higher education doesn’t hit until the very first tuition statement arrives. For Michael, that moment was an eye-opener—and a reminder of just how vital community support really is.
“When I saw the first outstanding balance show up in my student portal, it was more money than I had seen on any receipt, let alone one meant for me,” Michael recalls. “In that moment, I actually internalized how much of a game-changer my scholarships would be over my time studying. It made the mountainous task ahead seem much more attainable, showing me that going to school without a severe financial burden was actually possible.”
The Joy of Solving Problems
With financial anxiety taken off his shoulders, Michael has had the freedom to dive into his coursework and explore what truly drives him.
Through his studies, he discovered a deep passion for problem-solving in all its forms—whether building something from scratch, fixing what’s broken, or redesigning systems to work better. His journey in engineering is giving him the exact tools he needs to turn that passion into a lifelong career designing and implementing chemical processes.
“I gain the most enjoyment and fulfillment out of solving problems, and I learned that in part because I was able to go to college,” Michael shares. “The Hauge Scholarship was an enormous help in letting me figure out what I want to do and how I can focus that into a career. I’m so excited for the future, and I believe it will be bright—and the Hauge Scholarship helped me get there.”
Happy 100th Birthday, Mr. Hauge—thank you for giving Denfeld’s newest alumni the freedom to discover their passions and shape the future.
Are you part of the Hauge Scholarship legacy?
Join us in honoring Mr. Hauge’s 100th birthday milestone by sharing your story or thank-you note! Visit our Foundation Stories Archive to connect with us and read more Hunter alumni features.