“I appreciate the John and Kathy Rennick Accounting Scholarship because I am able to experience something my mother couldn’t,” said sophomore accounting student and Chicago native Armani Tubbs. “She fully supports my decision because no one would support hers.”
Tubbs decided to pursue an accounting degree after completing an accounting program during high school.
“It showed me the different routes I can take,” said Tubbs. “I chose ISU because of the accounting program but also for the business program and the opportunities the school offers.”
Tubbs is proud of her involvement with National Association of Black Accountants Inc. (NABA), which she says has taught her how to build her resume.
Like Tubbs, donor John Rennick ’78 was drawn to Illinois State University for its accounting program.
“In the Midwest, ISU was one of the top schools in accounting, with a reputation of having a large percentage of students successfully passing the rigorous CPA exam,” said Rennick, who started his own practice specializing in business tax services after earning his CPA.
John’s wife, Kathy Rennick ’76, graduated with a degree in animal science and chemistry. She went on to earn a master’s in science in ruminant nutrition from Iowa State University.
Longtime supporters of Illinois State, the Rennicks decided to expand their impact when they retired, John from his accounting practice and Kathy from a research position at the National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research. The Rennicks created two endowments to support undergraduate accounting students and graduate agriculture students.
“We both feel lucky to have had the great education and experiences we had at ISU and feel this is how we can best ‘give back’ in some small way. We hope to help others have that great ISU experience,” said John, who described the process of setting up their scholarships as “seamless.” Since both funds are endowed, they will live on in perpetuity, creating a lasting legacy for the family.
Hearing from scholarship recipients like Tubbs has been an added benefit.
“That’s the most interesting thing for me to see: students’ optimism and excitement,” Kathy said. “We’ve been there and done that, but it’s fun to relive that experience through them.”
