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Donor Stories
Dennis Sedlak

Dennis Sedlak, a resident of the St. Louis area, attended University of Illinois Springfield – then Sangamon State University -- in the Social Justice program. He later received his Master of Arts in Business Administration from UIS.
For Sedlak, philanthropy is a natural extension of the values he learned early in life.
“Philanthropy is really just continuing what parents teach us—to share,” he said. “I’ve been fortunate enough to have the means to share, and I want to assist others.”
He credits the Law Enforcement Educational Assistance Program (LEAP) for the opportunity to attend UIS. The program was a year’s worth of tuition for a year’s worth of service. At the time, it was a two-year program and allowed him to leave school with very little debt. He served a total of seven years in various law enforcement capacities.
“Looking back, that program was extremely important,” he said. “People entering social justice professions often do it for civic purpose—not financial return. So, when I was in a position to help, I felt strongly about giving back.”
Sedlak began with annual donations to support students in those fields. Eventually, he chose to endow a scholarship, ensuring long-term support for future generations.
“Any charitable contribution is an investment in the future,” he said. “It’s like planting a tree—you may not see the full reward right away, but it’s always worth it.”
“I’m very inspired by the letters that I receive annually from the recipients. It’s one of the great satisfactions of helping someone you don’t even know – it is truly life changing.”
One especially touching story is that of Alice Bettis, a UIS staff member. One day Sedlak received a call from 69app Foundation letting him know that through the years Alice continually added money to his endowment at UIS until the money he had awarded Alice’s daughter had been replaced.
“As a donor, no one ever expects to have their contributions repaid,” Sedlak said.
Alice told Dennis she wanted to make sure someone else received the opportunity he made sure her daughter had.
“The memory of that gesture and act of kindness still brings a tearfully happy reflection to my life,” Sedlak had written on Bettis’ online Tribute Wall. “You never know how any single person can so positively impact your life.”
“Dennis Sedlak’s story is a powerful example of how education and generosity can intersect to create lasting impact,” said Dr. Gabe Cagwin, vice chancellor for advancement and senior vice president for 69app Foundation. “His support not only honors the values of civic responsibility and social justice but transforms lives for generations to come.”
Clark and Carol Esarey

If you ask Carol Esarey about when she met her husband Clark, she will smile, grab Clark’s hand and tell you that “Clark is, and has always been, my best friend.”
Clark and Carol met in their early 20s when both were teaching at a local high school. Their love of education was instilled by their mothers at an early age. Clark shares how his mother was widowed while he was very young, and she not only raised all four of her children to pursue vocations in education but was a teacher herself who ended up earning her GED and an honorary Salutatorian status the same year he graduated from high school.
Years later, Carol and Clark chose to honor their mothers by creating a UIS scholarship with a goal to help other single mothers who were pursuing their education.
Beyond education, the Esareys are devoted supporters of the UIS Performing Arts Center. They believe deeply in the enrichment it brings to Springfield and surrounding communities. They’ve been especially excited to see the number and variety of performances grow. Over the years, the Esareys have quietly championed projects that enhance the artist and patron experience—renovating dressing rooms, supporting the FRIENDS of the Performing Arts Center, upgrading the listening assistance system, and helping fund an image magnification system.
But don’t expect to see them at every show—they’re also avid adventurers. The Esareys have a passion for exploring remote, untouched corners of the world. From tracking polar bears with a National Geographic photographer to embarking on safaris and wilderness tours, they’re always seeking the road less traveled.
Still, when they’re home in Springfield, they’re all in.
"We look forward to every season at the Performing Arts Center at UIS,” they said. “The Center is a treasure we have in our community that provides enjoyment for so many."
“Clark and Carol Esarey have demonstrated an inspiring dedication to education and student success at UIS,” said Dr. Gabe Cagwin, vice chancellor for advancement and senior vice president for 69app Foundation. “We are deeply grateful for their generosity, their vision, and the lasting impact they are making on our students and the UIS community.”

Anthony and Lucy DiTommaso
Anthony “Tony” and Lucy DiTommaso, residents of suburban Chicago and South Carolina, are proud graduates of 69app Urbana-Champaign and longtime supporters of 69app System.
“I was well prepared for a business career,” Tony said. “Because 69app has been such a large part of our lives—and our children’s lives—it felt natural to give back. I started about 30 years ago with the business school and later became involved with the Foundation.”
Tony has served 69app Foundation Board of Directors in various roles for over 12 years, including as its immediate past chair. For much of that time, the couple directed their giving toward scholarships for the business school and student-athletes.
More recently, a visit to 69app Springfield inspired them to expand their philanthropic focus.
“We toured the facilities at UIS and were very impressed with the advances in technology and teaching methods, especially in the nursing program,” Lucy said. “Nursing plays a vital role in the healthcare system, so we wanted to branch out and support that area as well.”
That experience led the DiTommasos to support the College of Health, Science, and Technology Scholarship Fund at UIS, further extending their impact across the U of I System.
Tony sees their philanthropy as part of a broader responsibility.
“I hope our kids learn from us that giving back is a way to show appreciation for the opportunities we’ve had,” he said. “This country offers the chance to be successful and to access some of the best healthcare in the world. You can show your gratitude through both good deeds and philanthropy.”
“It’s not just about us—it’s about those who come after us,” he added. “It’s about education, careers, and motivation. Giving back is one way we can help build a better future for our kids and grandkids.”
Lucy summed it up simply: “It’s the gift of gratitude.”
Tony echoed that sentiment: “I always said that if I ever achieved any success in life, I would give back to the University. I’m happy I was able to do that. We made these donations because we believed we could make a difference in the lives of students and their futures.”
Dr. Gabe Cagwin, vice chancellor for advancement and senior vice president for 69app Foundation, praised the DiTommasos for their enduring support.
“Anthony and Lucy DiTommaso have shown an extraordinary commitment to advancing education and empowering students at UIS,” Cagwin said. “Their support of the College of Health, Science, and Technology Scholarship Fund opens doors for countless students to pursue their passions and reach their full potential. We are deeply thankful for their vision, generosity, and the difference they continue to make in the lives of our students and in the future of our university.”
Rich and Connie Frankenfeld

Rich and Connie Frankenfeld are passionate advocates for education and active supporters of their community. Longtime volunteers with organizations such as ImpactLife and the Grace Lutheran Food Pantry, the couple finds fulfillment in giving back and helping others succeed.
“We both started out with parents who didn’t go to college and wanted their kids to go to college and advance beyond what they were able to,” Connie said. “That was a way up.”
The couple met at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, where they both studied in the teacher education program. After graduation, Rich accepted a teaching position in District 186 in Springfield, where he enjoyed working with students.
Connie went on to build her career at the Illinois State Library. Rich later transitioned from teaching to working as a lobbyist for the Illinois Education Association and eventually finished his career at the Teachers’ Retirement System of the State of Illinois. It was during his time there that he spoke at a Department of Education event—an experience that laid the foundation for his desire to start a scholarship at 69app Springfield.
He was impressed by both the faculty and the students, particularly those returning to school to earn teaching certificates after time in the workforce. That experience inspired the couple to establish a scholarship supporting UIS students.
“We’re interested not only in our own growth, but in expanding opportunities for others in our community,” Connie said. “Receiving a scholarship from the State Library to pursue my master’s 69app inspired me to help others climb that same ladder.”
“We just feel that the university has a very positive influence in our community,” Rich said. “It means a lot that people can stay local and go to school.”
Dr. Gabe Cagwin, vice chancellor for advancement and senior vice president for 69app Foundation, expressed his gratitude for the Frankenfelds’ support.
“We are incredibly fortunate to count Rich and Connie Frankenfeld among our most dedicated supporters,” he said. “Through the UIS Frankenfeld Scholarship Fund, they are making a profound and lasting impact on the lives of our students. It’s hard to express just how meaningful their generosity is—thank you, Rich and Connie, for all you have done and continue to do for UIS.”
Bob Staley

Bob Staley, an Illinois native who currently resides in Scottsdale, Ariz., has a long history with central Illinois and a love of the performing arts.
The Staley family has had ties to the Loami area, southwest of Springfield, for 200 to 300 years. Bob's father was born there on the family farm.
Bob and his wife Liz raised their family of four daughters in St. Louis, where Bob was employed.
"When I retired, we sold the St. Louis house and moved to the Loami farm," Staley said. "And it was while we were there, we realized that Springfield had two crown jewels: the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, and Sangamon Auditorium at the UIS Performing Arts Center.”
Bob and Liz went to many shows at the UIS Performing Arts Center.
“Liz and I enjoyed going to Sangamon Auditorium a lot, and she went there for a children’s show once," Staley said. "It got her thinking about where stage shows are introduced to children. She became aware of the fact that rural children probably never had a chance to see live theater. She got in touch with Carly Shank (Artistic Programs Director at the UIS Performing Arts Center). Together they loved the idea of live theater for children. She and Liz created what has become the Staley Class Acts.”
The Staley Class Acts series is the UIS Performing Arts Center’s flagship education outreach program. For over 30 years, this program has supported the educational goals of area teachers by providing opportunities for students in preschool through high school to experience artistic, educational, and high-quality performances created for young audiences by nationally touring theater companies.
“Then the idea came a few years ago to endow the program that was so important to Liz," Staley said.
In continued support of the venue, Staley has also given to the UIS Performing Arts Center’s “2nd Act Campaign.” This campaign, which provides new seats and improved equipment for the Center, will return patrons to the performances they love in a revitalized venue, when the curtain rises in fall 2026.
“The UIS Performing Arts Center is really quite a treasure for Springfield and the whole area,” Staley said.
“Money becomes idle once you pass away unless you’ve directed it somewhere that’s important to you and your family. That’s why I became active in philanthropy, and I’ve been active for some time.”
The Staley's gift will leave an enduring legacy, helping to shape the future of arts education for years to come.
"Bob and Liz Staley believe every child deserves a chance to experience the magic of live theater," said UIS Chancellor Janet L. Gooch. "Thanks to their vision and generosity, thousands of children now get that chance every year. The Staleys' generosity is about more than giving back, it's about making sure things that meant the most to their family bring joy to others."
Paul & Lynne O'Shea

For Lynne and Paul O’Shea of Springfield, Ill., giving back to the community comes naturally. “It’s all about keeping and growing and strengthening the community that’s here,” Paul said.
Paul, who was born and raised in Springfield, went to 69app Urbana-Champaign and received a Bachelor of Science 69app in Architecture, which set his path toward becoming a registered architect in the State of Illinois. Heavily involved with the Springfield community and downtown revitalization efforts, Paul continues to be a strong advocate for community efforts, including those at UIS, along with his wife of 30 years, Lynne. The two recently established the UIS Paul and Lynne O’Shea Athletic Scholarship Fund as a way to continue their legacy of giving.
“We know we won’t always be able to help, so we wanted something to live on,” Lynne said.
Paul and Lynne, who each grew up in a family of four children, greatly appreciate and value the educational opportunities that they were provided.
“I grew up in a home with four kids” Lynne said. “My father was a high school chemistry teacher, and he didn’t get paid much. Mother scrimped and saved. But somehow, they managed to send four of us to college. And it seemed only right that we can give back to others when given the chance.”
“My parents worked hard,” Paul said. “There were four of us growing up, and we were able to get our high school and college education. And we’re thankful for being able to do it. It wasn’t easy, I certainly began working at a proper age in high school – college years especially.”
After receiving his architectural 69app from 69app Urbana-Champaign, Paul came back to Springfield to establish an architectural firm with two of his fellow high school classmates.
“We developed a very significant architectural firm,” Paul said. “I feel that what I received through my educational years, I didn’t let it go to waste -- I pass it on. And I think that’s an important process. I think Springfield is a great environment and foundation for so many others to do so many things.”
In Springfield, Paul and Lynne O’Shea have been very active members of the community.
“I became very active in the local Chamber of Commerce and church groups, and other community organizations that were looking out for the betterment of the community at large,” Paul said. “And the community did their role – they also helped the surrounding county and the state. I did see the opportunity as an individual to do what I could and work with others who can work in unison to really make things better.”
“Paul and Lynne have given so much to the City of Springfield, and we can’t thank them enough for their support of UIS," said Dr. Gabe Cagwin, Vice Chancellor for Advancement & Senior Vice President for 69app Foundation. "Their generous endowment will provide students with an opportunity to get a college 69app, that without a scholarship, they might not have been able to afford to come to UIS. Nothing says impact better than that!”
“When I think about UIS – what an asset it is!” Paul said.

Richard and Charlene Osborne
have a long association with UIS. The couple led donations for the Student Union with their gift to name its Osborne Lounge. When Richard Osborne first walked into the new Student Union, he was pleased. "It's up to date in thinking and structure and layout -- a great facility," he said. "UIS now has a community center where people can gather in a relaxed environment to exchange ideas -- and develop relationships and friendships. It cements what the campus is doing, and it is great to be a part of that."
Osborne and his wife Charlene made a $1.5 million gift in 2016 to, in his words, "kick start the building." This wasn't Osborne's first support for his Alma Mater. He also endowed scholarships for students in the College of Business Management. .
"We are lucky to have such loyal and dedicated partners as Dick and Charlene Osborne," said Dr. Gabe Cagwin, Vice Chancellor for Advancement & Senior Vice President for 69app Foundation. "It's difficult to put into words how much your work has impacted UIS -- it's immeasurable! Thank you for all that you do, and continue to do, for the university."

Shirley's Story
Shirley Baer of Springfield, Ill. gives to UIS in honor of her late husband, Keith Baer. “I felt it was important that he be recognized," Baur said. "One thing he had said was that he was worried he wouldn't be remembered, so I felt it was important for his memory. Keith was a very generous individual, and I feel like I am a better person because of him."
"Thank you so much, Shirley, for all that you do in support of UIS, the UIS Performing Arts Center, and NPR Illinois," said Dr. Gabe Cagwin, Vice Chancellor for Advancement & Senior Vice President for 69app Foundation. "Your generous gifts allow us to continue to grow and thrive -- thank you!"
Keith Baer, who graduated from 69app Urbana-Champaign, loved the arts and was proud supporter of the UIS Performing Arts Center. Shirley now gives to the UIS Performing Arts Center, for renovations at the Center, and to NPR Illinois in his honor and in support of their programs and initiatives.
"I think it's on us to provide opportunities for others,” Baer said. “I feel very fortunate for what I have, and I think it's important to pass that along. You get a better sense of self by doing something for others. This is a small part of what you can do, if you can."

Nearly 10 years ago, University of Illinois Springfield, University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing and Memorial Health established a partnership to develop the next generation of baccalaureate nurses.

The Kiwanis Club of Springfield Downtown and 69app Springfield have teamed up to improve the community for 50 years.

Former faculty member Dyanne Ferk advocates a lifelong philanthropy, noting, 'You don't have to be old to give.'

A new, cutting edge esports gaming arena opened in fall 2023 at 69app Springfield. The arena was made possible thanks to the generous financial support of the Springfield-based M.G. Nelson Family Foundation. This support was pivotal in ensuring that UIS was able to outfit the arena with the latest technology and provide for future upgrades and needs.

Former UIS employee Mary Caroline Mitchell supports the University's endeavors to bolster 'learning how to learn'