Illinois State hosted its third annual Gratitude Gala on March 29 to honor donors from the University’s giving societies. At the Gala, the University presented four awards to recognize donors’ outstanding philanthropic achievements.
The event and awards celebrate the generosity and philanthropic commitment of some of the University’s greatest ambassadors. Their dedication to the continued growth of Illinois State will advance the University for years to come.
Redbird Philanthropist of the Year Award
Gary ’63 and Mary Gemberling
The Redbird Philanthropist Award recognizes an individual or couple who demonstrates outstanding civic responsibility to Illinois State University through voluntary commitment of their time, talent, and financial contributions. Recipients of this award have also served in leadership roles, provided vision, and involved others in philanthropic activity.
Gary Gemberling’s philanthropic journey began in the 1960s with a modest $5 donation. Over the years, his and Mary’s contributions have grown into a transformative planned giving commitment—the largest ever from a Redbird alum to the College of Business. Their generosity will support scholarships, professorships, and program development, ensuring opportunities for future generations.
Their impact extends beyond the College of Business, with ongoing support for Redbird Athletics and the Illinois Shakespeare Society, demonstrating their dedication to the University’s success in multiple areas.
Beyond financial contributions, Gary and Mary serve as passionate ambassadors for Illinois State. Gary’s leadership on the University’s Foundation Board has helped drive philanthropy forward, while his distinguished military service reflects his lifelong dedication to making a difference.
Their generosity is not just about giving—it is a testament to their belief in education and their desire to leave a lasting legacy that enriches lives for years to come.
Investor in Excellence Award
COUNTRY Financial®
The Investor in Excellence Award recognizes a corporation, foundation, or organization that demonstrates a philanthropic commitment to Illinois State University’s mission, vision, and values. These donors invest in Redbird talent and student success by way of advisory board roles, speaking engagements, recruitment fairs, and more.
COUNTRY Financial has a strong and longstanding partnership with Illinois State University, investing in student success, university programs, and community engagement.
“Their commitment to having a positive impact on the greater Bloomington Normal community is more than apparent,” said Illinois State junior finance major Charles Cruse, a recipient of a scholarship made possible by COUNTRY Financial. “COUNTRY could choose to be just some insurance company on the other side of town, but instead they choose to be an integral partner to ISU supporting students and their pursuit of higher education.”
COUNTRY Financial continues to make a lasting impact at Illinois State University, providing not only financial support but also fostering student success and community engagement. The company’s generosity has supported over 110 scholarship recipients, ensuring financial barriers do not hinder potential.
This year, COUNTRY Financial expanded its commitment by launching a student cohort program, offering scholarship recipients mentorship and professional development opportunities to prepare them for future careers.
Beyond scholarships, the company has contributed to vital university initiatives, including research projects, speaker series, and collaborations with the Center for Civic Engagement and the Horticulture Center. COUNTRY Financial’s support enhances student learning while strengthening ties between the university and the community.
Additionally, COUNTRY Financial plays a key role in student career development through internships, job opportunities, and recruitment fairs, helping graduates in business, communication, technology, and creative arts transition into meaningful careers.
Innovation in Philanthropy Award
Steve ’73 and Sharon Hagge ’73
The Innovation in Philanthropy Award recognizes a donor who demonstrates creativity in their philanthropic efforts. Such donors have established a new initiative, expanded the University’s reach, or benefitted a new discipline.
Steve and Sharon Hagge met on their first day of class at Illinois State and were married on their graduation day four years later. Both benefited from individualized attention on campus—Steve in the Accounting Department and Sharon as a special education major. They credit this attention for their career success.
In 2019, the Hagges gave a $1 million gift to establish the Stephen and Sharon Hagge Innovation Institute, which is based in the College of Business and supports student learning and leadership opportunities. The Stephen and Sharon Hagge Innovation Institute encourages the delivery of transformational learning opportunities for students and recognizes and encourages leadership.
The Hagges’ support continued with the creation of the Sharon and Stephen Hagge Endowment for Innovation in Education, a fund designed to equip both preservice and in-service teachers with the tools and technology to redefine learning. Their support has provided the College of Education with the tools to explore groundbreaking teaching strategies, preparing the next generation of educators to lead classrooms with confidence.
Above and Beyond Philanthropist Award
Maureen O’Brien, M.S. ’93
The Above and Beyond Philanthropist Award recognizes an Illinois State University faculty or staff member who, in their philanthropic support of Illinois State, has gone above and beyond their professional role at the University to have an even greater impact. This year’s recipient has devoted her life to inspiring, supporting and leading students.
Maureen O’Brien earned a master’s in accounting at Illinois State University before serving as an instructional assistant professor in accounting from 1994-2015. She established the O’Brien Family Scholarship at Illinois State to provide support for students who are active in LGBTQ+ registered student organizations (RSOs). The O’Brien Family Scholarship signals to current and prospective students that the College of Business is an open, affirming, and safe place for the LGBTQ+ community.
These recipients represent just a few of the many generous donors who constitute Illinois State’s recognition societies. Together, these donors and the thousands who give annually position the University for limitless success.
