A Reason to Give It Your All

Nicole Stone, a senior early childhood education major from Gilbertville, Iowa, received the Kay Baber Roupe Scholarship.

"Knowing that someone is giving me support makes me want to try harder for them," says UNI senior Nicole Stone. "I don't want to disappoint someone who is investing in me and my future, so I give it my all. Receiving the Kay Baber Roupe Endowed Scholarship has made going to UNI easier financially."

If Kay could hear those words, she would be overjoyed to know she made an impact on someone's life. Kay died in 1975, but her legacy endures. Her son, Richard Roupe '40, established a scholarship in his mother's name to honor her spirit of generosity, and he memorialized her giving heart in a beautiful essay. The following is an excerpt:

"The narrow boundaries of her existence on earth encompassed no more than family and friends, church and neighbors. And, yet, when she died at the age of 97, she served as a bright and shining beacon to everyone whose life she touched."

Keeping Kay's Legacy Alive

Nicole is determined to keep Kay's torch of generosity burning as she prepares for her career in teaching, and to be that beacon to all the young lives she will touch.

"My interest in teaching stemmed from my love of children," Nicole says. "Growing up, my mom had a day care in our home, which impacted my decision to become a teacher. As I got older, I began to baby-sit and help out in classrooms with younger children. It was there I realized my 'ah-ha' moment. I knew teaching was for me. Being able to help someone succeed in learning is very rewarding.

"I want the Roupe family to know that their belief in me helps more than words can say. I am completely grateful."

Show Your Support

Would you like to support a student or program at UNI with a gift in your estate? Contact Jane Halverson at (319) 273-4665 or jane.halverson@uni.edu to discover your charitable giving options today.