As lifelong educators, UNI alumni Gary and Myrna Floyd have shaped thousands of students’ lives over their careers. And though they’re retired now, they’re still finding ways to help students through scholarships, fellowships and other gifts to UNI, their alma mater.

Over the years, the Floyds have created funds that have resulted in more than 90 scholarships and summer research fellowship awards. Much of their giving focuses on helping future teachers and scientists – like they themselves were. 

Myrna, who graduated from UNI in 1963, taught junior high for more than 30 years, and Gary, who graduated in 1962, taught high school science before moving on to teach biology at Ohio State University – eventually becoming Dean of the College of Biological Sciences there.

“As we went on, Myrna and I realized we have a chance to help other people – especially ones who want to do good for society by becoming public school teachers, or taking part in science and research,” Gary said. “We wanted to give back to UNI, and help future students because we got so much from our time there. The interaction with caring faculty was critical to our success. As educators, we know how important that is, and it’s something we both enacted throughout our whole careers.” 

For their support of students and programs, the Floyds received the UNI Foundation’s first Presidential Philanthropy Award in 2012. But more important than awards, the Floyds find value in seeing the impact they can make on students’ lives.

“We’ve worked with so many students over the years – and there are all kinds of people who need a little assistance,” Myrna said. “When I was at UNI, I was lucky to have scholarships to help with the cost. But a lot of people I went to school with didn’t get to graduate when I did. They had to leave and work a year, then come back, then leave again to work another year before coming back. We knew we wanted to help make things a little easier for future generations.”

The Floyds added that gifts of all levels – no matter how big or small – can make all the difference for the student receiving it. 

“We’re proof that you can make a little bit of money go a long way when you’re giving,” Gary said. “We’ve gotten to the point where our fund is a pretty good size. It’s not big corporation money, but it’s something that can help. And a little bit can go a long way.”