“I cannot put into words how fortunate we are to have a group of donors who contribute to this program each year,” Hargis said. “Their love and support for OSU is helping us achieve greatness in all areas.”

Bryan Close, a 1966 hotel and restaurant administration graduate and Fellows donor, said he is pleased with how Hargis examines each area and decides where to apply support.

“He, far more than any of us, is able to observe certain, often obscure, needs of the university that rarely are known to even the most ardent donors,” Close said. “I take great pleasure in knowing that my small contribution, combined with those of other members of the President’s Fellows, will be applied to projects that can create meaningful and significant changes at OSU.”

Lasting Experiences

President’s Fellows also support study abroad programs for students like Shariah James.

The psychology senior is one of seven students who received a scholarship to participate in international studies in 2018.

She was able to take part in the College of Arts and Sciences’ short-term travel course Exploration in the History of Psychology over spring break.

“Without the generous support of donors, this trip would not have been possible,” James said. During her time in Ireland, she met with locals, ate traditional Irish cuisine and visited galleries and museums. “I chose Ireland because I wanted to learn more about the country’s enchanting and rich history of psychology,” she said.

Her time abroad had such an impact that James now plans to pursue a master’s degree in international management with a focus on human resources and organizational leadership. “You have helped make a lasting impression on my life, and for that I am forever grateful.”