Former Chancellor Shirley DeBow shows support for students by contributing to a scholarship funded by past and present Senate members.
With 45 past and present members of Senate already contributing to the endowment fund, the Senate members are making a powerful demonstration that they believe in the University.
"The Senate is a phenomenal resource. The representatives volunteer for no other reason than to serve the University. They want to contribute," explains former Chancellor Shirley DeBow.
To recognize the University's 40th anniversary, Senate members joined together to establish a place for the Senate to support students in the pursuit of their educations. A team of volunteers, led by Senator Derek Redman, contacted all past and present members of the Senate to ask if they would participate.
In order to help reach the endowment level of $30,000, Senator Henry Bergen made a very significant gift in honour of the work of DeBow.
"Henry has demonstrated unbelievable generosity; it's just extraordinary. He is the epitome of what it means for someone to be involved with the Senate. He took his commitment very seriously and wanted to symbolically show his loyalty to the University," says DeBow.
Because the 61 members of Senate are influential leaders from many different constituencies, they play a vital role in raising support for the University. DeBow believes that support from the Senate is somewhat contagious and can have a positive ripple effect.
"Senate members return to their communities and tell people about what the U of L is doing for students and for the development of academic education. Other people end up wanting to be part of the University in a similar way," says DeBow.
The funds raised through the endowment will go directly to deserving students. The scholarships will not only help students financially, but in many cases can make the difference between a student having a dream or living their dream.
"Scholarships are of utmost importance at the U of L. Of course, a fully-funded scholarship is a tremendous gift, but even receiving recognition through a small award can be the kind of boost students need," says DeBow. "It makes them feel appreciated and lets them know their work is recognized."
As DeBow reflects on her term as chancellor, she remains proud of what the Senate has accomplished. "I trust that supporting students will always remain a priority for the Senate. I am delighted that the Senate will be leaving such a great legacy of leadership," she says.