Indiana State University has announced the recipients of its 2023 Philanthropy Awards, including the March On! Award, the John P. Newton Spirit of ISU Award, and the Student Philanthropy Award.
The March On! Award has been presented annually since 2015 to honor remarkable donors who generously aid in the advancement of Indiana State. This year’s recipients include Dave and Jeanne Husain, Darwin McCallian, Robert and Penny Schafer, and North American Lighting.
“We are delighted to congratulate the recipients of the 2023 Philanthropy Awards. Each of these awardees is so deserving of this prestigious recognition for their belief and support of Indiana State. As a University, we are truly honored to have these wonderful people joining us as we change the lives of countless students and make a lasting impact for everyone who steps on our campus,” said Dr. Deborah Curtis, President of Indiana State University.
Andrea Angel, Vice President of University Advancement and CEO of the ISU Foundation said, “We are grateful for the impact of our March On! Award recipients. Their generosity transforms student lives on campus, and their dedication is vital to the success and advancement of Indiana State University.”
These recipients will be recognized at the third annual President’s Dinner on November 10, in addition to the Distinguished Alumni and other award honorees.
Award recipients include Todd and Michelle Hein, who are receiving the John P. Newton Spirit of ISU Award, and WZIS, which is receiving the Student Philanthropy Award.
The John P. Newton Spirit of ISU Award was established in 2010 to honor Newton’s longstanding dedication and service to the University. It is awarded each year to recognize Sycamores who exemplify a deep commitment to ISU.
Todd and Michelle Hein are loyal Sycamore fans, and their passion for ISU is rooted in their son, Jacob. The Hein family cares deeply for the success of Indiana State’s student-athletes. They can be seen at most ISU sporting events and provide a “second home” feeling to many Sycamores during their time in Terre Haute.
“We are so pleased to receive support from wonderful individuals like Todd and Michelle,” Angel said. “They exude Sycamore pride and their steady commitment to ISU makes them more than deserving of the John P. Newton Spirit of ISU Award.”
The Student Philanthropy Award was created in 2021 to honor a student organization on campus that has dedicated its time, talent, and treasure to better the lives of the Sycamores.
WZIS, the radio station run by students on campus, embodies the spirit of philanthropy by consistently implementing positive change and providing support for Sycamores. The group assists in organizing and promoting events such as Picnic Palooza, Dance Marathon, Toys for Tots, and their Game On Giveaway, which provides students a cost-free opportunity to win gaming consoles, autographed memorabilia, and gift cards.
“It is such a delight to be able to recognize a student organization for all their hard work throughout the year,” said Grace Longyear, Student Philanthropy President. “WZIS has continuously put others first and has helped raise funds and awareness for a variety of causes. We are very proud of their efforts to bolster and grow the culture of philanthropy on our campus.”
Bios of the March On! Award winners:
Dave and Jeanne Husain
Dave and Jeanne Husain’s passion for Indiana State University began when Dave was a child as he grew up in Terre Haute, and his father was a faculty member. They established a scholarship honoring Dave’s parents and recently created the first endowed fund supporting the Project Success initiative.
Darwin McCallian
Darwin McCallian is a 1975 Indiana State alumnus, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science and economics. His gifts have largely supported initiatives in the Scott College of Business through the creation of an executive leadership forum and an endowed professorship.
Robert and Penny Schafer
Former Vice President of Administrative Affairs Robert Schafer and his wife, Penny, are both alumni of Indiana State University. Bob graduated in 1961 from the Scott College of Business and earned his graduate degree in 1963, while Penny graduated with her first bachelor’s in 1967, her master’s in 1970, and her second bachelor’s degree in nursing in 1991. Their philanthropic support has been strong in Sycamore Athletics, the Scott College of Business, and the College of Health and Human Services.
North American Lighting
North American Lighting is a leading producer of innovative automotive lighting systems based out of Paris, Illinois, that works closely with Indiana State University by creating opportunities for students in the form of internships, scholarships, faculty support, and full-time positions.