Jonas Wagner “Viva la Vida” Memorial Scholarship

The Jonas Wagner “Viva la Vida” Memorial Scholarship was established by the Eden Prairie DECA in conjunction with parents Bill and Nancy Wagner.

Jonas Wagner loved to “live the life”—playing sax, cuddling his dog, listening to classic rock, hanging out with friends and cousins, and enjoying soccer, hockey, waterskiing and wakeboarding, hunting, fishing and snowmobiling. He was intelligent, responsible, funny, confident, creative, playful and willing to try new things. Though he faced inner struggles that many never saw, his classmates remember him as outgoing, kind‑hearted and full of promise.

Jonas’ passing came too soon—just a few days after his 17^th birthday—yet his life continues to inspire his school and community. His story reminds us that behind every smile and laugh may lie unseen battles—and challenges each of us to pay attention to others, build stronger connections and make sure no one journeys alone.

Creating belonging, saving lives
Strengthening social bonds supports emotional wellbeing and reduces isolation. Research shows that students who foster connection and support their peers build protective networks, encourage help-seeking, reduce stigma and lower the risk of mental health crises, including suicide.

That’s why the Jonas Wagner “Viva la Vida” Memorial Scholarship celebrates students who live the life by showing compassion, lifting up others and building meaningful peer connections in their school and community. They actively create welcoming spaces where classmates feel safe, included and supported—through mentoring, peer groups, school activities or simple acts of kindness.

Are You a Good Potential Applicant?

This scholarship is awarded to two graduating Eden Prairie High School seniors who:

Plan to attend any post-secondary school in the fall following graduation
Demonstrate care for others by fostering connection, belonging and inclusion by:

Reaching out to peers and helping them feel valued and supported
Taking initiative in mentoring or activities that build belonging
Modeling kindness, hope and care in everyday interactions
Submit a personal essay

Students must complete the EPHS Multi-Scholarship Application, provide an official transcript and letter(s) of recommendation, and a response to this question:

Share your experience with helping others feel connected or included—what did you learn, and how will your future studies or career help you continue to positively impact others? Because Jonas loved music, give your answer a title that’s the name of a recognizable song (and name the artist).

Award Amount: $1,000 one-time award to two students

How to Apply:

The application process will take place through Eden Prairie High School’s Multi-Scholarship Application process. The Multi-Scholarship Application is open December 15, 2025 – February 12, 2026 (11:59 PM). A committee will choose the recipient and the scholarship will be awarded at the EPHS Senior Community Scholarship Awards night on May 18th.

Log in to Xello → go to Resources or Scholarships.
Complete the Multi-Scholarship Application, which opens as a Google Form. All required short-answer questions and scholarship-specific supplemental essays are included directly in that form.
- Letters of recommendation are not uploaded by students.
  Teachers should upload them to the provided Drop Box or email them directly to Ms. Abby Gee at abby_gee@edenpr.k12.mn.us.
Submit the application by the deadline to be considered for all scholarships you qualify for.