In late 2024, Boise State announced 10 new True Blue Scholarships thanks to a donation from Mike and Lori Mers, founders of wealth management firm Aspen Capital Management. True Blue Scholarships are awarded to Idaho residents based on financial need and merit. These scholarships will be awarded to 10 Boise State students starting in the fall of 2025.
Both Mike and Lori are Boise State College of Business and Economics alumni. In 2002, they founded Aspen Capital Management, a fee-only wealth management firm serving families and nonprofits. Several years ago, their firm established a paid internship for Boise State’s upper-division finance majors. Each year, one student gains valuable professional experience and training as a fiduciary advisor through this program. Notably, Aspen Capital Management has often hired these interns after graduation, and now, over 60% of their employees are Boise State alumni. The Mers view the scholarships as an opportunity for their company to give back to the university.
“Boise State University has been a great partner to Aspen Capital Management by providing a pipeline of amazing talent to help our business run and grow,” Mike said. “We are making an investment in the university and its students because they are our lifeblood. We view this donation as a partnership distribution since the university is a valuable business partner.”
The Mers have supported Boise State for years. Their most recent gift expands their philanthropy to True Blue Scholarships, which are meant to increase Idaho’s “go-on” rates and grow the number of graduates contributing to Idaho’s economy. The Mers’ gift will cover 10 True Blue Scholarships a year for 10 years, offering students $2,500 scholarships renewable for four years. True Blue Scholarships are not only good for Idaho students, but they help to ensure Boise State’s future viability and competitiveness with other Idaho schools.
“Mike and Lori exemplify what it means to be a Bronco, and I’m so proud to know them,” said Jeremiah Shinn, vice president of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “Their dedication demonstrates the powerful impact of our university’s extended family. Their investment will make a tangible and immediate difference in the lives of Boise State students by helping them to focus on their studies, explore exciting opportunities, and achieve their personal, educational, and career goals.”
This significant contribution to the True Blue scholarship program exemplifies Aspen Capital Management’s investment in the university as a business partner and students as future leaders.
“In making this investment in our students, Aspen Capital Management is stepping forward as valuable partners of the university who will help move the needle for both our students and the strategic direction of the university,” said Perrine Blakley, executive director of development for the College of Business and Economics. “We could not be more proud or grateful to have alumni like them who see a need and take action.”