The family of Marshfield native Brittany Zimmermann says the 21-year-old wanted everyone to have the chance to get a college education, even if they couldn't afford it.

That's why they're starting a scholarship fund in her memory.

Zimmerman's body was found murdered in her downtown Madison apartment on Wednesday, April 2.

She was planning on graduating from UW-Madison in fall 2008 with aspirations of becoming a doctor.

Zimmerman's aunt, Kim Heeg, issued the following statement to NewsChannel 7:

In the days since Brittany's tragic death, we have searched our hearts for answers that we may never receive. We are grieving her death and we are grieving the future events that we will never celebrate with Brittany. One event we will never celebrate with Brittany is her graduation from UW-Madison next fall.

Anyone who knew Brittany knew of her love for learning and her ambition and dedication to help others. If you knew her, you would also know of her perpetual positive attitude. We have determined that the best way to honor Brittany and her beautiful heart is to establish a scholarship fund in her name.

Brittany wished for everyone to have the opportunity to obtain a college education regardless of their financial standing. In the attempt to establish this fund, we are asking the community to donate to the "Dollars for Brittany" scholarship fund drive. Donations can be sent to the:

Marshfield Medical Center Credit Union
302 West Upham Street, Marshfield, WI 54449

Questions about donations can be directed to the Marshfield Medical Center Credit Union at (715) 387-8686. For those in the Marshfield area, her family will also be attempting to place collection jars at local businesses because every dollar really will help. Jars will be available until Friday, April 18, 2008 and no deadline has been set for donations at the Marshfield Medical Center Credit Union.

We thank you for your support and prayers in the past week and we thank you in advance for your support in honoring Brittany.