Empowering the Next Generation of First-Gen Students

As a first-generation college student, Linda Stude '71 recognizes the value of higher education. However, some members of her family were resistent when she told them she was going to college. She fondly recalls her late grandfather asking her, "Why do you want to attend college? You're just going to get married." Unwilling to be deterred from her academic pursuits, she graduated from Ohio Wesleyan with a Bachelor of Arts degree in German and embarked on a career as a high school teacher of German and French. What she remembers about her graduation day was her grandfather beaming with pride when she showed him her diploma.

Moments like the one she shared with her grandfather and so many other beautiful moments she experienced at OWU spurred her to become a champion of higher education and help provide scholarships to first-gen students so they, too, can pursue their dreams. Linda supports OWU through the Tower Society with a gift in her estate plan and through our Promise Scholars program. She has most recently celebrated her support of OWU and first-gen students by establishing an endowed scholarship so her generosity will live in perpetuity, cementing her legacy as a champion of the liberal arts, higher education, and Ohio Wesleyan.

How did you find OWU?

A family friend had attended OWU and suggested I apply there.

What is your favorite OWU memory?  

I loved sledding down the hill in winter in front of Stuyvesant Hall on cafeteria trays.

How did going to OWU change your life?  

Having never been away from home until I started college, I gained a lot of independence and resilience I would not have had if I'd attended a college closer to home.

Why have you given back to OWU? What motivates you to support OWU? 

I would not have been able to go to college had there not been the help of donors to the scholarship funds I received. I want to pay that forward.

What motivates your support for higher education? Does being a first-generation graduate add to your desire to help future students?  

Most definitely. The current expense of a college education has made it nearly impossible for many bright young people to attend without significant financial assistance. My gifts, though not major, will ease that financial burden.

What advice would you give someone considering supporting OWU? 

Support for small colleges like OWU is so essential! Every gift is significant, no matter what size.

What's the best advice you've ever received? 

Learning is a lifelong adventure. Keep learning even after the formal education process has ended. Also, be thoughtful and kind, and share with others.

What inspires you? 

The commitment that many young people have to make our earth a better place.

What's your hope for OWU's future? 

I hope OWU will continue to thrive and provide a unique and empowering learning environment for generations.