Betty and Charlie have been very active alums, and are constantly giving of their time, talent, and treasure. Betty is active on our campus as a volunteer, and has worked to preserve and archive much of the university's history with her committee. Everyone knows Betty, and last year she headed the committee to celebrate the first 50th anniversary of class graduates from the University of St. Thomas.

Eleanor Rivet was a long time member of the Siena club that began in the founding years of the University of St. Thomas. They were business and professional women who served to activate the faith of their members and enjoyed many social opportunities as well. They raised money for scholarships, and gave faithfully of their time, talent, and treasure. The university was pleased to learn that Eleanor Rivet left a significant gift through her will.

UST retired faculty member, and Professor Emerita of Spanish, has been a long time supporter of the university. Her desire to turn dreams into reality by "leaving a legacy" was consummated when she donated her home. "I was surprised that I would be able to live here for the rest of my life, after giving away my home," said Dr. Vallbona. This gift was very appealing since it allowed her to gift her home, and remain a resident. Dr. Vallbona has traveled worldwide, lectures, and is a notable author. She enjoys her time visiting her family and making frequent trips to Costa Rica.

Mildred Fisher became interested in the University of St. Thomas, after her friends Paul and Annette Sofka, both alumni, began bringing her to events on campus. Mrs. Fisher, currently widowed, loves education. She spent over forty years of her life as a teacher, and couldn't imagine a better way to make a difference in the lives of students, than by providing for their future at the university. Mrs. Fisher's arrangements to leave accumulated investments will provide a fully endowed scholarship to a deserving student every year into perpetuity. The $250,000 gift will provide a full scholarship every year.

Neil Menou Johnson, who was a club member since 1987, initiated the Sienca Club endowment scholarship with a $10,000 gift made during her lifetime. Johnson was a woman determined to beat the odds, a philosophy she developed form her bout with childhood polio. It was this philosophy, her belief in young people and the mission of UST that motivated her to give the seed money to establish the scholarship. This former teacher and gardener wanted to see young people blossom and have a chance for success. She passed away on May 18, 2000. Her estate will continue her generosity to St. Thomas.

Gloria Manning, who passed away on April 24, 1999, bestowed on the University the gift of ExxonMobil stock valued at $73,431. Manning, who was employed by Exxon for 38 years, was a devout Catholic, and a Siena member since 1966. She served as vice president of the Club in 1980. For more than 10 yuears, she chaired the "Day of Recollection," a special day of prayer. Manning was fond of young people and placed great store in education.