From Barb Kucharski (College of Education class of 1970) and Dave Kucharski (College of Engineering class of 1970), co-chairs of the Dean's Development Council:
It has been a year since our last message to the College of Education alumni community — and what an eventful year it has been. Our message focuses on two highlights, from a philanthropic perspective.
First, we are pleased to report that the College of Education enters the sixth and final year of the “Greater Penn State” campaign having completed the most successful single-year fundraising effort in the college’s history. This was aided by more than $9.33 million in commitments raised from July 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021. As of Sept. 24, 2021, total commitments exceeded $32.1 million, with a pathway in place to reaching $40 million by campaign’s end in June 2022.
Much credit is due to College of Education Director of Development Steve Wilson, his predecessors Simon Corby and Michelle Houser, and the hard-working development staff. None of this happens, however, without the dedication and generosity of our exceptional donors who once again have stepped up in support of the college. Thank you to all who have contributed and for being what makes Penn State great.
Second, the college’s new strategic plan positions the college to play a critical role in advancing diversity, equity and inclusion in all facets of education.
Inspired by Dean Lawless’ vision, and in support of the goal of diversifying the student body, members of the Dean’s Development Council (DDC) have committed to endowing the DDC Educational Equity Scholarship, the revenue from which will be awarded to undergraduate students who contribute to the diversity of the student body.
Pledges have been confirmed, and the first funds are expected to be available by spring 2022 if not sooner. Our thanks to the DDC members for their leadership, to Dean Lawless for her inspiration, and to Steve for his guidance.
If you are interested in contributing to the DDC Educational Equity Scholarship, or in learning how you can create similar support for College of Education students, please contact Steve Wilson at stw2@psu.edu.
Thank you again for your support of the College of Education. You make a difference.