The scholarship was established via a $1.2 million estate gift from alumna Brenda Lu Beach and will support students who are studying to become elementary school teachers.
Capital University has received a $1.2 million estate gift from alumna Brenda Lu Beach to establish the Brenda Lu Beach Endowed Scholarship for individuals who want to become elementary school teachers. Beach is remembered as a generous person and accomplished educator, having been recognized as a Martha Holden Jennings Scholar.
According to an article on Capital University's website, university president Dr. Jared R. Tice is quoted as saying of Beach, “Brenda Beach devoted her professional life to helping children learn and flourish, and through this extraordinary gift, that work will continue for generations. As a Capital graduate, an elementary educator, and a Martha Holden Jennings Scholar, Brenda understood the profound influence a great teacher can have on a student’s life. Her legacy will now help future Capital educators discover and develop their own gifts so they, in turn, can shape classrooms, communities, and countless lives. We are deeply grateful for her remarkable act of generosity and stewardship.”
Brenda Lu Beach graduated from Capital University in 1964 with a bachelor degree in elementary education. She spent her career teaching at the elementary level, first in Millcreek-West Unity Schools and later the Wooster City School District. In the 1970s, she was selected as a Martha Holden Jennings Scholar, an award given to outstanding teachers in Ohio. Beach was 83 when she passed away in 2025.
April Novotny, who serves as the university’s vice president for Advancement and chief development officer, said, “Gifts like Brenda’s reflect a growing investment in the future of Capital University and in the next generation of educators who will shape the future of our communities. Philanthropy has an important role to play in making a Capital education accessible and sustainable for students, while also strengthening the professions and communities they will go on to serve. We are deeply grateful for Brenda’s vision and for the lasting impact this gift will have on future Capital students.”
The Brenda Lu Beach Endowed Scholarship will support students at Capital University who are academically deserving and who demonstrate financial need. It will be awarded to students who intend to become elementary school teachers. The gift will support students individually as well as the university’s ability to prepare passionate elementary school educators.
Carmen S. Dixon, Ph.D., the dean of the School of Education and an associate professor, said, “Our students come to Capital because they want to make a difference in the lives of children. This scholarship will help future educators develop the knowledge, skills, and gifts they need to become exceptional teachers. Brenda’s generosity will have an impact well beyond Capital as our graduates carry that preparation into classrooms and communities for years to come.”
For more information about Capital University, visit the school’s website.