Impact of Giving to OWU

Each year, endowed funds create meaningful possibilities for students and faculty by supporting scholarships, faculty development, academic programs, and more. These transformative opportunities empower students and faculty to pursue their passions and enjoy an Ohio Wesleyan experience that is unique to them.

Endowed Funds in Action

Kahlil Mitcheell-Smith '25
Environmental Studies major and Philosophy minor

Kahlil Mitchell-Smith '25, an Environmental Studies major and philosophy minor, was confident when he chose to attend Ohio Wesleyan that OWU was a good fit for him. "My dad is an alum, and I was attracted to the small class sizes, which give room for more engaged discussions. I was also excited to experience the countless opportunities the OWU Connection offers." 

However, as a recipient of an endowed scholarship, Mitchell-Smith has been afforded opportunities he never imagined possible. "I have been able to go to Richmond as part of the Summer Bridge Program; South Dakota to volunteer for Lakota Youth Development; London with my Food Politics and Policy course; and New Zealand, where I studied invasive species ecology and 18th-century philosophy. I am so proud of the work I have accomplished at OWU. Receiving a college education and traveling the world with no debt is an opportunity that is only available to me because of the generosity of OWU donors. These opportunities have defined my university experience and set me on a path where I possess immense academic knowledge and real-world experience.

"Being a recipient of an endowed scholarship has also sparked my curiosity and desire to be philanthropic. I look forward to supporting majors and disciplines like English, Philosophy, and History."

Etta Pierce '26
Inclusive Elementary Education major; 
Psychology minor

Read more about Etta