The Art of Gratitude
Student Sets Out to Make the Most of Her UNI Experience
Some high school seniors struggle to find the right fit in a college or university. For freshman Sam Simmers, UNI felt right from the start.
"I came to campus and loved it. It's the perfect size. The people are friendly, and did I mention I love it here?" Sam says.
Making life at UNI even better, Sam received the Francis and Margaret Pardoe Endowed Scholarship. "It's rare to get help in life," Sam says. "Receiving a scholarship is an amazing thing. To know that someone has made a gift to help students—it's a good feeling."
The Mason City native is embracing life at UNI. Sam applied for and was accepted into a living learning community. She is actively participating in residence hall floor events and continues to meet new people.
"I'm going to make the most of it because others are investing in me," she says.
Sam is majoring in art with a studio emphasis and hopes to be admitted to the B.F.A. program.
"Since I was a kid, I have had this crazy dream to one day work for Disney," she says. "I want to be a concept artist. As a kid, I'd watch a movie and think, ‘Wow. That's so cool. Maybe one day I can make that.' Maybe one day I can make another kid think the same thing."
Sam is confident the education she receives at UNI will provide her the foundation to achieve her goals.
"A giant thank-you to the Pardoes and to all who are willing to help students. You are making a difference."
When asked about their gift, Francis and Margaret Pardoe said, "We feel good about giving UNI students opportunities they may not otherwise have without the benefit of scholarship assistance." They have also made a planned gift to continue giving beyond their lifetimes.
Help Shape the Future
By including a gift to UNI in your will or other estate plan, you can help students pursue their dreams at UNI. Contact Jane Halverson at jane.halverson@uni.edu or (319) 273-4665 with any questions about giving a gift that transforms lives.