Rio Receives Two Transformative Endowment Gifts, Paving the Way for Academic Growth

University of Rio Grande is proud to announce two endowment gifts from the estates of generous benefactors. The gifts, totaling $2.8 million, will enhance Rio’s scholarship endowment, offering sustained financial support to deserving students.

"These gifts allow us to expand scholarship opportunities that will open doors for students," said Ryan Smith, President of University of Rio Grande. "We are deeply grateful for the generosity and vision of these donors, whose legacies will empower generations of students to achieve their academic goals."

The first gift, a bequest from the estate of Don Hodge, will establish the Don Hodge Scholarship Fund. Hodge was an advocate for education and a lifetime Gallia County resident. 

Hodge’s intention was to make an education possible for ambitious young people who would otherwise be deprived of an education because of financial limitations and to whom these scholarships would be a deciding factor as to whether or not they attend Rio. 

The second bequest comes from the estate of Cora Baker and will establish the Roger L. and Cora M. Baker Memorial Scholarship Fund. The scholarship will support students who demonstrate both academic excellence and financial need. The goal of this fund is to broaden access to education for future generations, helping them achieve their full potential.

Baker, a longtime supporter of Rio, was deeply committed to advancing opportunities for students. The legacy of her and her husband will live on by providing critical financial aid to deserving students, paving the way for their academic and professional success.

“These gifts highlight the profound generosity of individuals who believe in the transformative power of scholarships and Rio,” said President Smith. “Their foresight will have an enduring impact, ensuring that the promise of education remains within reach.”

Rio is honored by the lasting impact these two planned gifts will make and looks forward to celebrating their legacies through the opportunities these scholarships will provide.

To learn more about how you can make a lasting legacy through planned giving, and to see available resources, visit Rio’s Planned Giving page.