Mike Nylund leads Scholarship America, the nation's largest private scholarship provider, administering more than $300 million annually across more than 1,300 unique programs. Working with Fortune 500 companies, community foundations, individuals, and philanthropists, Mike brings a deeply personal mission: removing financial barriers so that every student can achieve their dream of a post-secondary education. As a former scholarship recipient, Mike understands firsthand the transformative power of scholarships, not just as financial support, but as a message of recognition and belonging.

Since becoming President and CEO in 2022, Mike has fundamentally transformed Scholarship America through his philosophy of servant leadership and data-driven approach. He has positioned the organization as a true partner to sponsors, helping them elevate their work by bringing in expertise, technology, and administration. Under his leadership, Scholarship America has shifted its focus to prioritize students with the greatest financial need while streamlining operations to provide the best possible support to partners.

Mike's strategic vision extends beyond traditional scholarship distribution toward a collaborative model that works with partners to help them deliver impact and elevate their organizational goals while ensuring every initiative delivers positive, life-changing impacts to students throughout their educational journey and careers.

Mike joined Scholarship America in 2013 as Vice President of Product Strategy and Partner Solutions. In this role, he led product strategy and positioned Scholarship America as a strategic partner. Previously, he led one of the nation's largest financial aid offices at Capella University, managing a team that disbursed close to $800 million annually.

A graduate of Michigan State University, Mike resides in St. Paul, Minnesota with his husband Scott, where they spend every winter dreaming of a life someplace other than Minnesota. For Mike, leadership is rooted in the belief that recognition and opportunity can unlock human potential, driving his commitment to give as many students as possible the same pivotal moment of recognition he experienced.

Mike Nylund, Board Member

President & CEO,

Scholarship America