The University of Findlay recently announced the endowment of the John R. ’53 and Jo Ann ’00 Davidson Scholarship, made possible by the generosity of Jo Ann, as part of the University’s 125th anniversary celebration.
   
The scholarship will be awarded annually to a Findlay High School graduate who exhibits a commitment to public and/or community service. The recipient will be a full-time student and have a GPA of at least 3.2.
   
The Honorable Jo Ann Davidson is a former Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives and has been a member of the Ohio House of Representatives for 20 years. She also is former vice president of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce and is president of JAD and Associates LLC and has served on the University’s Board of Trustees since 1994.
   
“I found out how important public and community service is to the city and county in which an individual lives,” she said. “Findlay is a great community and many dedicated citizens deserve thanks for their contributions.”
   
John R. Davidson served his community during World War II. He missed his Findlay High School graduation in 1945 because he and several classmates joined the war effort. Upon his discharge, he graduated from high school and Findlay College, attending college on the G.I. Bill.
   
The goal of the endowed fund drive is to create 125 new endowed funds for student scholarship, faculty development and program support. As of the launch date, 44 new funds totaling approximately $2 million have been created.

A steering committee consisting of University alumni and friends has been organized to provide leadership during the drive. Members of the steering committee are:

•    A.R. ’66 and Mary Ann Charnes, national co-chairs
•    Dr. Robert Frampton, College of Health Professions
•    Barbara Meyers ’63, College of Education
•    Larry McDougle ’63, College of Sciences
•    Tony Pitts ’85, Athletics
•    Dallas Sterling, School of Pharmacy
•    Jim ’63 and Karis Woodward, College of Liberal Arts
•    Denny Zahler ’70, College of Business

To find out more about how to help students get a UF education, click here.