From a young age, donor and former Illinois State staff Dr. Elizabeth Chapman dreamed of becoming a teacher. Her parents were encouraging but made it clear that Chapman would have to find means beyond their support to finance her education. That’s when she began applying for the scholarships that made it possible for her to pursue a degree in education. When looking back on how these opportunities impacted her life, Chapman said, “I graduated from college with minimal debt. I couldn’t have done it if I had not had the scholarships I had.”
Chapman chose to pay forward her good fortune in 2021 when she established the Elizabeth A. Chapman Scholarship, which supports an incoming freshman studying within the College of Applied Science and Technology. To qualify, students must be active in leadership roles and activities, practice civic engagement, and have a background in community service during their time in high school.
Chapman said she is proud to give back to the next generation and enjoys the opportunity to share her success with future students. Chapman’s generosity also stems from a love of Illinois State, where she formed relationships with students and staff while serving as dean of the College of Applied Science and Technology from 1983 to 1995. Chapman was later invited to fill the role of acting associate provost, a position she eventually served on a permanent basis.
“I think of the people in the College of Applied Science and Technology, my associate dean, Dr. Larry Miller, and the chair of the Family and Consumer Sciences department, Dr. Connie Ley, who was a good mentor and always made me think a second time about things,” recalled Chapman. “There were people like Dr. John Urice, who gave me the opportunity to come to the provost’s office. Those are the kind of people who inspired and supported me, and then there’s the whole group of friendships of people that I worked with, not for.”
Chapman hopes her contributions will encourage another generation to contribute to society. She hopes the next generation will not only give of their skills and talents, but also broaden each other’s minds. “A lot is solvable by providing people with the opportunity to show that there’s more than one way to address problems. I think the educational experience at the college level does broaden students’ perspectives,” she said.
Chapman also appreciates the financial benefits of giving back, including the tax benefits she has experienced by giving directly to the University from her Individual Retirement Account (IRA). “I realized how much more I could give if I could do a direct transfer from my IRA, than by just writing out a check. It opened a whole new door for me,” she said.
Since departing from ISU, Chapman now resides in a North Carolina golfing community that lies between the ocean and Appalachian foothills. In her spare time, Chapman also serves as treasurer within her local, progressive Christian church and enjoys caring for two retired show dogs. “We are growing old gracefully together,” said Chapman.
For information about giving to Illinois State through an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or other investment vehicle, visit GiveTo.IllinoisState.edu or call (309) 438-8184.
