Dedicated Donors
Can you share a little about your connection with USD?
"Every day I wake up grateful for the years I spent at USD. Both of my parents attended USD, and my mother in particular loved it. She set a high standard for me to follow. We were both members of Theta, journalism majors and editors of The Volante. These experiences provided a strong foundation for our daily newspaper careers in Minneapolis. Even more meaningfully, I still see a number of my sorority sisters more than 60 years later."
How did your experience at USD shape your life or career?
"I spent 25 years on the Neuharth Board, founded by University of South Dakota alum and USA Today founder Al Neuharth, with many trips to Vermillion to work with students and help plan programs designed to enhance their skills. I saw students, year after year, who were as motivated as I had been to learn as much as possible in class, then apply their skills on The Volante and in other journalistic endeavors. My intent is to help keep that fire burning. My mother has a scholarship, and I have established a planned gift that I hope will help future journalists gain the tools they need for the ever-changing media world."
What inspired your gift?
"I would say to those considering a planned gift, remember what gave you joy, the foundation for your career and maybe even a spouse. Then make it possible for another generation to have a similar experience at USD. Just do it."
"Remember your planned gift is your legacy and thank USD for all it gave you."
What would you say to others who are considering a planned gift to USD?
"To recent alums, remember your college days fondly and start giving, no matter the size of the gift and build on it. For students, take advantage of all USD has to offer and begin your thank you giving as soon as possible."