Jay Spehar established the Spehar Family Scholarship to support undergraduate students at Montana Western in recognition of the many Spehar family members who have benefited from their education and/or careers at Montana Western.  Jay Spehar wishes to honor past professors Blanche McManus, Ed Cebull, and Joe Ryburn for their lasting contributions to Montana Western and the generations of students they served.

The Spehar Family Scholarship is awarded to a full-time UMW student who is enrolled and in good standing at the University.  Eligible students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0.  New and returning students are eligible.  Preference is given for students who are legal Montana residents, who are single parents, who have obtained a GED, who are veterans, who are pursuing a degree in Education, or who are pursing a degree in an Industrial Arts field.