Inspiring Stories
Making Music for Generations to Come
Alumna pays it forward in honor of an influential teacher and inspires others to give back.
Legacies Change Lives: Emily Butz
George L. Jenkins, ’63, and Gina Jenkins Impact Student Access and Honor a Mentor
George L. Jenkins’ generosity spans three decades and continues to support first-generation students and those from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Sally Kirkland Turns a Personal Tragedy into a Blessing for Others
Establishing a scholarship in honor and memory of her daughter and granddaughter has helped Sally Kirkland heal some of her pain while providing support for generations of students to come.
Making the World Forever Brighter: Paying it Forward by Supporting Student Success
An Ensemble of Philanthropy
“If you have money to give, you want to touch as many lives as you can.” - Denise A. Seachrist, Ph.D., '93
Kathleen Rydar, ’67, ’80 MA Impacts Students' Lives Using Her IRA's Required Minimum Distributions
For Kathleen Rydar, '67, '80 MA, receiving support while a student herself sparked a lifetime of giving back. “These investments tucked away during working years present a remarkable opportunity in retirement to give generously to my alma mater while reducing my tax burdens."
Giving Back and Creating a Legacy
Dr. James L. Raper, ’79, chose to support Kent State students with a planned gift that includes an endowed fund and endowed professorship that support nursing research and education.
Mindy and Gary Aleman – A Lifetime of Giving
“It really is all about Kent State’s wonderful students,” Mindy said. “Gary and I were able to pursue our dreams. These students deserve the opportunity to pursue their dreams and need help right now to do that.”
Jay and Joanie Solomon Provide Immediate and Future Support for Students
“I know how hard it is when you’re worried about being able to pay for whatever is coming up,” said Jay Solomon, ’61. “Dollars were always short for me. I was fortunate to be able to find jobs to take care of that, but that doesn’t always happen. I identify with the ‘Last Dollar Scholarship’ idea – to be able to help students who have the kind of pressure like I did.”