Can you provide us with some information about your background? Your education and career?
I grew up in Missouri with a close-knit family. When my twin sister, Sally, and I decided to attend the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, it was no surprise to our family. We were the third generation to attend the university, and in fact, my grandparents met at the University of Illinois. I was proud to attend the university and loved my classes. I spent time volunteering as a tutor at the YWCA. I met my husband, Larry, during my junior year of college. After graduation, I worked in Chicago at Montgomery Ward and tutored in the evenings in Cabrini-Green, a public housing complex on the near north side of Chicago. I went back to school and earned my Master of Arts degree in teaching. I loved teaching and taught in Ohio and Illinois. When my husband and I were ready to start a family, I retired from teaching to raise our three children: Scott, Ryan, and Lauren. I now serve as the President of The Gies Foundation where we focus on education, youth, and health. I am also a board member and regular tutor at Chicago Jesuit Academy, located on the west side of Chicago and serves students impacted by historical disinvestment. I also recently joined the University of Illinois Foundation Board of Directors.
Can you tell us more about how you have stayed connected to the University of Illinois since your time as a student?
I’ve stayed connected to the university by spending time with alumni friends, attending Gies College of Business events, and attending football and basketball games. I also stay connected through the UIF Board of Directors.
Giving to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is clearly important to you. Can you explain what compelled you to give and keep giving? What do you hope your philanthropy accomplishes for the university?
I’ve always been passionate about the importance of education and see education as a way to make one’s life better and open doors for new opportunities, but sadly not everyone has access to a quality education. My husband, Larry, and I, through our desire to help democratize education and reduce barriers, made the decision to give to the university. Our decision to give was for the students, and to expand the business school’s scholarships and programming. We both received an incredible education at the university and want to share this opportunity with others.
What advice can you share about how to make a lasting impact at the University of Illinois?
I was fortunate to have access to a great education and believe it is important to give back. Giving back can be done through time, talents, and investments. I would suggest that you find your passion and jump in. I’ve supported the institution financially and with my time. It has been a pleasure to support a school that means so much to me.
What is your favorite University of Illinois memory?
It is so hard to choose just one! I had so many happy moments from meeting my now husband on the steps of my sorority, time spent with dear friends, and sitting on the Main Quad on a beautiful fall day. My funniest memory would have to be when I was walking with a friend on the Quad on our way to class. I saw a tall guy in an Illinois sweatshirt with a backpack running in a full sprint right at me. I thought surely he would veer away before he reached me. Suddenly he picked me up, swung me around, and gave me a big hug. Once my feet were back on the ground, I looked at him shocked and said, “I don’t know you. I’m Beth.” He looked embarrassed and confused. I then explained to him that he must know my identical twin sister, Sally. We had a good laugh about it. It was the most interesting way I’ve ever made a new friend.
