The University of Akron Foundation

07/27/2026

Today we honor and say goodbye to a visionary leader, a devoted alumnus and advocate for The University of Akron, and above all, a cherished friend: Ben Ammons.

Ben understood that success carries an obligation to give back. From guiding UA through defining eras of growth to establishing the transformative S.T.E.P. program—which has helped over 1,000 local students reach their dreams—Ben gave of himself so the next generation could succeed.

The best tribute we can offer Ben is to follow his example: serving our community, mentoring others, and leading with integrity.

Thank you to Erin, Heather, and the entire family for sharing Ben with all of us. We will miss his steady presence and counsel, and we are forever grateful for all that he did for the University in his remarkable life.

05/01/2026

✨ Celebrating Impact at Our April 22 Foundation Meeting ✨
On April 22, we were proud to gather for our University of Akron Foundation Spring Meeting—an inspiring afternoon centered on the power of philanthropy and the difference our generous community continues to make for our students.
A highlight of the day was recognizing this year’s incredible honorees, whose commitment and leadership exemplify what it means to give back and build a lasting legacy of opportunity at The University of Akron.
👏 Please join us in congratulating our honorees:
Elizabeth Buchtel Award Recipients
• Dr. Diane Vukovich
• Sally Benson
Elizabeth Buchtel Student Award Recipients
• Gracyl Collins
• Shanon Jackson II
• Julianna Muller
Through their generosity and passion, these individuals are shaping brighter futures and strengthening the impact of the University of Akron Foundation for generations to come.
We are deeply grateful to all of our supporters, partners, and friends who make this work possible. Together, we are transforming lives through philanthropy. 💙

04/29/2026

Donor-advised funds continue to play a growing role in charitable, tax, and estate planning—and their use in practice is evolving. Join us for a complimentary continuing education lunch designed for professional advisors.

This session will explore practical considerations and emerging strategies for incorporating donor-advised funds into client planning, including both lifetime giving and estate planning contexts.

Continuing education credit has been requested for 1.0 hour of OH CLE, OH CPE, CFP® CE, and OH Insurance CE.
Questions? Call Kim Zebedis @ 330.972.2819

04/07/2026

Board Immersion Day in action! 🎓
UA Foundation Board member Kevin Waklatsi spent the day experiencing campus through the eyes of our students—listening to their stories, engaging in conversation, meeting fellow Board members, and joining the Foundation’s College-Centered committee lunch. Moments like these deepen our connection to the mission and to the students we serve.

02/25/2026

So proud to celebrate you, George. Thank you for all of your advocacy for UA and our students!

01/05/2026

Fun way to support scholarships at UA!

🎉🦘💙 Start the new year with some Zips spirit! 💙🦘🎉

No office, kitchen, or desk is complete without the 2026 edition of our famous, printed Zippy Calendar. Each month features everyone's favorite marsupial around campus and in the City of Akron.

Price ($20.26) includes $10 donation to student scholarships.

🛒: 1870market.uakron.edu/products/2026-zippy-calendar

12/18/2025

🌟 Season's Greetings from the UA Foundation! 🌟

As the year draws to a close, we send our deepest appreciation and warmest season's greetings to the dedicated members of The 1870 Society.

The 1870 Society is comprised of extraordinary alumni and friends of The University of Akron who have chosen to transform lives by remembering the University through a thoughtful planned gift—whether a bequest in a will or trust, a life insurance designation, or other life income arrangements.

Your commitment to the future ensures the continued success and achievement of UA and its students for generations to come!

Planning for the Future?

If you are considering a planned gift that aligns with your charitable goals and creates a lasting impact, we are happy to partner with you and your professional advisors during that process.

Representatives from the Center for Gift and Estate Planning are ready to assist! Contact our Planned Giving Team today at (330) 972-2819 or via the link below:

https://risetogether.uakron.edu/ways-to-donate/planned-gifts-bequests/

Thank you! Go Zips! 💙💛

11/14/2025

What a fantastic Board Immersion Day! UA Foundation Board member Rollie Bauer connected with these incredible Zips to hear all about their extraordinary student journeys! Christina (Aerospace Systems Engineering major and Computer Science minor), Aidan (Mechanical Engineering), Natalie (Accounting – Accelerated – MT Track (Major), English (Minor)) and Mason (Financial Planning and Financial Management major) shared how co-ops, internships, and student orgs have shaped their education. Seeing their leadership and experience is inspiring!