Types of Gifts

Endowments

One of the most rewarding gifts one can make is towards the establishment of an endowment. Whether it’s the creation of a specific scholarship fund for talented students, support for distinguished and dedicated faculty members through professorships and chairs, or support for a specific program’s long-term endeavor, an endowed gift makes a long-term impact strengthening the University. An endowment creates financial stability, allowing the University to be less dependent on unpredictable sources of revenue during times of economic uncertainty. Endowed gifts make a lasting impact on the university, thereby leaving a legacy of generosity for generations to come.

For more information, please contact the Office of Development at 251.442.2226 or 800.WIN.RAMS.

Olson-Barnes Endowed Scholarship Fund

Helen Barnes and Edna Evelyn Olson

Edna Evelyn Olson loved teaching. When she died at the age of 94, the retired teacher from Theodore left a legacy that will enable hundreds of young men and women to follow in her footsteps.

Her gift of $258,400 establishes the Olson-Barnes Endowed Scholarship Fund in honor of Miss Olson and her sister, Helen Barnes.

"Miss Olson was one of the smartest ladies you ever met in your life," recalled Otis Brunson, executor of Miss Olson's estate. "She so loved her own career as a teacher and so much appreciated what the Lord had done in her life by allowing her to be a teacher, and she wanted to help others pursue a career as a teacher. Miss Olson felt she could make a contribution to her own profession by offering scholarships through the University of Mobile."

Miss Olson began her teaching career in Wilmer in the 1920s after graduating from the University of Alabama. She taught throughout Mobile County, with the majority of her career at Murphy High School from the 1930s to the 1960s. She was an active member of First Baptist Church of Theodore until her death on Aug. 21, 1999.

Her gift will provide scholarships to the University of Mobile for students planning to enter the education field.