$8 million estate gift expands support for U of A WA Franke Honors College students
The Susan K. Von Kersburg Baird Scholarship Celebration took place Wednesday. Funds from an endowment established through an $8 million estate gift will expand the impact of the Baird Scholarship.
Arielle Pagac/Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement
Susan K. Von Kersburg and her beloved dog, Finnegan.
An $8 million estate gift from the late Susan K. Von Kersburg will provide lasting support for students in the University of Arizona W.A. Franke Honors College, ensuring that in-state honors students selected as Baird scholars can study abroad and pursue their passions without financial barriers.
Funds from an endowment established through the gift will expand the impact of the Baird Scholarship, one of the most comprehensive awards offered by the university. The program provides full tuition and a generous annual stipend to exceptional Arizona high school graduates. Von Kersburg's gift also includes a $1 million endowment dedicated to supporting Baird Scholars who study abroad.
"Susan Von Kersburg's generosity acts as a force multiplier for the Baird Scholars program, increasing access to the U of A for Arizona's top high school graduates," said U of A President Suresh Garimella. "It is particularly meaningful that her legacy will expand study abroad opportunities for these scholars, rounding out the excellent education they receive here with life-changing global experiences, and ensuring they graduate ready to succeed on an international stage."
Von Kersburg first learned about the Baird Scholars at a UA Foundation annual dinner, a stewardship event that brings together scholars and the donors who make the program possible. She left the dinner inspired to make the bequest that now bears her legacy.
"The Baird Scholars never fail to impress and inspire, and I think Susan felt that way, too," said John-Paul Roczniak, president and CEO of the University of Arizona Foundation. "I am so grateful for her belief in their potential and investment in the Baird Scholars program. She's left a profound legacy at the U of A that we're honored to steward."
Karna Walter, assistant dean for student engagement with the W.A. Franke Honors College, stands with Baird Scholar Gayatri Kaimal at the Susan K. Von Kersburg Baird Scholarship Celebration on Wednesday.
Arielle Pagac/Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement
"Being selected as a Baird Scholar has connected me with the most inspiring peers and mentors who, having believed in me from the start, gave me a strong foundation for my college journey," said class of 2027 Biomedical Engineering major and Baird Scholar Gayatri Kaimal. "The relationships I've built in this community have constantly motivated and challenged me to grow and improve, both as a member of the Wildcat community and as a human being."
Von Kersburg, who earned bachelor's and master's degrees in education from the University of Arizona in 1962 and 1972, was a lifelong supporter of student success and a quiet force for good in higher education. She died on April 24, 2025.
"Susan's extraordinary generosity reflects a deep commitment to student success," said Franke Dean John Pollard. "Her enduring gift will strengthen our ability to attract and support top students to the W.A. Franke Honors College, and these amazing students will contribute to Susan's legacy far into the future."
The gift also contributes to the university's $3 billion fundraising campaign, which supports student success, faculty research and initiatives across campus.
