The University Balloon Race Scholarship Committee has been in existence since 1986 and has awarded scholarship funds since the early 1990s. The University Balloon Race Scholarships have been distributed each year since 1999. The committee exists to raise the money to award two scholarships a year; one to an undergraduate student and one to a graduate student.
The committee is pleased to announce Alec Brennan as the graduate student recipient and Vincent Lee as the undergraduate student recipient for the 2021-2022 academic year.
Alec Brennan, is pursuing a degree in chemistry. She is a first-generation college student and enjoys volunteering her time. Brennan is involved with her community and helps with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Nevada. She wants to make a difference in their lives.
Vincent Lee is a senior and is a biochemistry major and an Honors student. He is involved with the Circle K Club and works in the Center, Every Student Different Story. Lee is also a first-generation student.
The University Balloon Race Scholarship Committee would like to congratulate Brennan and Lee for their hard work and encourage everyone to attend the Great Reno Balloon Race at Rancho San Rafael Park Sept. 10-12, 2021. Don’t forget to stop by and visit the University Balloon Race Scholarship Committee booth during the balloon races.
The University celebrates the beginning of The Great Reno Balloon Race, this year celebrating its 40th anniversary, with a balloon launch off the historic Quad, Thursday, Sept. 9, at 7 a.m.
2025 Balloon Race Commemorative Pin
The 2026 À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ, Reno Balloon Race Scholarship Committee commemorative pin celebrates a remarkable 40-year milestone in helping students succeed. Established in 1986, the committee has supported generations of Wolf Pack students through scholarships, consistently awarding four or more scholarships each year and creating opportunities that empower students to pursue their educational goals. The anniversary pin features three colorful hot air balloons soaring above a mountain landscape, symbolizing both the enduring spirit of the Great Reno Balloon Race and the aspirations of the students it supports. A banner proudly marks the committee’s 40th Anniversary, while a commemorative silver border honors four decades of dedication to higher education. The phrase “Helping Students Succeed 1986–2026” serves as a tribute to the countless lives impacted through the committee’s commitment to student success and celebrates the bright future of scholarship recipients yet to come.
