Compassionate Donor's Scholarship Spares Student From Leaving School

David Galla, president of R. J. Galla Company, Inc., has served as a member of the CLC Foundation Board for a little more than 9 years. Whenever he is asked about why he makes foundation giving and service a priority, he remarks simply, "It is the students."

Recently, David shared an experience he had with a student at the very beginning of his service on the foundation board. Each spring, the Foundation holds an annual scholarship reception where students and donors have the opportunity to meet, celebrate and share the mission of the Foundation—it is the reward of the Foundation’s work. The scholarship recipients have the opportunity to engage with the people who are committed to students reaching their potential through education, and in return, donors have the opportunity to learn and witness firsthand how their giving truly impacts the lives and well-being of these students. Everyone leaves with a commitment to pay it forward, and make educational access and success an ongoing priority.

At the end of attending his first scholarship reception, David was approached by a student accompanied by his father and younger brother. The young gentleman simply wanted to thank David in person for the business scholarship fund that David set up in his parents' name. He advised David he was awarded a grant though this scholarship was needed to secure the two credits needed to continue his education with the university he had been accepted to.

This being David's first CLC Foundation Scholarship Reception, he himself was in the learning stages, becoming acclimated as a new member of the Foundation Board.

During their meeting, the student explained the reasons he chose CLC and described his experience as a student. He also shared his personal experience during this time—the true “impact” and “value” of scholarships and appreciation for the Foundation’s work.

The student shared that his mother passed away unexpectedly, his younger brother became ill and was hospitalized and that his father lost his job—all in a very short period of time. David’s reply was “It is I who thanks you!” For David, that was a formative moment in his life—one that shaped his philanthropic commitments for years to come. The need was no longer vague or academic. It was embodied in the life of a specific student with unmatched courage, self-discipline and purpose. David remarked, “I think of that moment Everyday.”

To learn how you can leave a legacy and impact our students through your estate plan, contact John Butler at (847) 543-2713 or jbutler3@clcillinois.edu today.