An endowed fund is one of the most meaningful ways to support Schreiner University.

Created for a specific purpose, such as scholarships, academic programs, or research, an endowment reflects a donor’s personal values and long-term vision. The original gift is invested for growth, and each year a portion is distributed to support students and programs, in perpetuity. In other words, it is a gift that keeps giving forever.

In recent years, Schreiner has been blessed by a growing number of named endowments supporting areas such as student scholarships, nursing, LSS, criminal justice, and even football. Each one tells a story about what matters most to the people who created it.

This month, I am especially pleased to share a unique and inspiring example. Alumni Richard “Dick” Steele ’58 and his wife, Mary McKerall, have established a Fund for Excellence within the Office of Purposeful Lives. Their endowment is designed to help nurture Schreiner students as catalysts for non-violent and peaceful solutions and service within their communities, across regions, and around the world. Annual distributions from the fund may support guest speakers, faculty research, or student travel, all centered on the study and practice of peaceful conflict resolution.

This focus is deeply personal for Dick and Mary. As active Quakers in the Live Oak Friends Meeting of Houston, they, along with their children and grandchildren, are committed to values of peace, dialogue, and non-violence. Through this fund, they hope Schreiner students will learn from moments in history when conflict was transformed through understanding and purposeful conversation and carry those lessons forward into today’s world.  Their generosity is a powerful reminder that an endowment is more than a financial gift; it is a lasting expression of what you believe in.

As part of Schreiner’s five-year Cornerstone Campaign, we set a goal of establishing 100 new endowments. Today, we have reached 85, and with your help, we aim to complete the remaining 15 by May 31, 2026.

Creating an endowed scholarship is more attainable than many realize. Gifts can be pledged over five years, with a minimum commitment of $25,000.  If you have ever thought about how you might leave a lasting impact at Schreiner, I would love to visit with you. Together, we can shape a gift that reflects your passions and supports future Mountaineers for generations to come.

About Dick and Mary:

Richard Steele attended Schreiner Institute for his junior and senior years of high school beginning in 1956 and graduating in 1958.  He lived in South Barracks. During his senior year he served as Sargent Major of the Cadet Corp. He went on to Tulane University and later West Texas State University earning a Bachelor of Science in Geology. After working several years in the domestic and international mining and petroleum industry, he entered Saint Mary’s University School of Law earning a Doctor of Jurisprudence. After graduation he worked in the international petroleum industry.

Mary graduated from Nichols State University earning a Bachelor of Arts in History and English. She then entered The University of Texas School of Law earning a Doctor of Jurisprudence.  After graduation, she worked in public law with both Harris County and the City of Houston.  Mary is being honored this month with a Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the Houston Association of Women Attorneys.

Richard and Mary have a son and daughter, and four grandchildren. All are active Quakers in the Live Oak Friends Meeting of Houston. They are passionate about finding solutions that are peaceful and non-violent.

Endowed funds help:

• Keep a Schreiner education affordable through expanded scholarships and financial aid.  (95% of Schreiner students receive financial aid.)
• Elevate student experiences with research, internships, service learning, and global opportunities.
• Attract and retain top-tier faculty and staff who inspire and mentor the next generation.
• Advance signature programs like nursing, engineering, education, and the arts, preparing students for meaningful careers.