For Trudy Gross ’92, civic engagement is a personal and family value.
“I always saw community service and giving as a way to sustain and support other peoples’ goals.”
Trudy Gross
A longtime girl scout, Gross took a summer job at a destination Girl Scout camp in California following graduation from Illinois State. After returning to Chicago for a year, Gross relocated to the west coast, where she currently serves as associate superintendent for student and special services in Sunnyvale, California. Gross emphasizes curriculum and guidance, mental health, and support for students with disabilities. She also oversees all assessment and accountability measures, which include various school site and district plans.
Despite the distance, Gross remains connected to Illinois State, which she says provided a strong foundation for her career. Gross maintains friendships with members of the Student Alumni Council. She has also returned for several Homecomings and preview guide reunions.
After Gross’ family established scholarships at the University of Michigan in honor of her grandfather, and later, her mother, Gross was inspired to consider her own philanthropic legacy. Gross receives letters from the family’s scholarship recipients who convey the impact of private support.
“I had experience with larger, sustaining gifts,” said Gross. As a continuation of her family’s generosity, Gross committed a $250,000 deferred gift to support special education students at Illinois State. Gross hopes her contributions will allow students access to opportunities that help them achieve their goals.
“At this point in my career, I want to give back to support young people learning in the field, going into administration, or whatever their goals may be,” said Gross. “I’m returning all that I feel I got from my education at ISU.”
Donors wishing to make a lasting impact may designate the Illinois State University Foundation as a beneficiary of a retirement investment, bank account, or life insurance policy. For more information about creating your Illinois State legacy, visit Giving.IllinoisState.edu or contact College of Education Director of Development, Wilma Bates at (309) 438-4304 or wbates@IllinoisState.edu.
