Indiana State University alumni Nick ’19 and Makayla ’19 McCollum and Kate Sullivan ’16 have boldly stepped forward in support of student success by creating two endowed scholarships at Indiana State University.
Their generosity underscores the importance of giving back early in one’s career, fostering a culture of philanthropy that strengthens the Sycamore community. Both endowed scholarships will be used to benefit deserving students who require additional financial support to complete their education at the University.
“Nick, Makayla, and Kate embody the true spirit of what it means to be a Sycamore. As proud alumni, their generosity and commitment highlight the strength and reach of our Indiana State University family across the country. Their thoughtful investment in scholarships reflects a deep belief in our mission and ensures that future generations of Sycamores have the opportunity and support they need to thrive. We are incredibly grateful for their dedication and lasting impact on our community,” said Indiana State University President Mike Godard.
Nick and Makayla McCollum both graduated with degrees in Insurance and Risk Management and have built successful careers in the industry. Nick is a Risk Advisor at First Insurance Group, Inc., while Makayla works as a Farm Underwriter at Indiana Farmers Mutual Insurance Company. Committed to staying connected with their alma mater, the couple has stayed involved with the University through the Scott College of Business (SCOB) and Sycamore Athletics, and Nick currently serves as chair of the Alumni Board.
To support students in the SCOB, the McCollums established the McCollum Family Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship benefits active members of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity or Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, reflecting their own Greek life involvement at Indiana State.
“Our success has come largely from the connections we made, the people we met, and the life lessons we gained from our time at Indiana State,” said Nick and Makayla McCollum. “We give back because we are firm believers in the mission of the University, and we understand the impact of instilling a legacy. It's important to promote the culture of giving at all levels, so that when someone does get to the point where they can give back, they’re already doing it.”
Kate Sullivan graduated from Indiana State with a bachelor’s degree in finance. After graduating, she began working at Bedel Financial Consulting, Inc. and has risen through the ranks to get to her current position as a Wealth Advisor. Similar to the McCollums, Kate has been an unwavering Sycamore and currently serves as the vice chair of the Alumni Association Board.
Sullivan became a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) soon after completing her education at Indiana State and has created the Sullivan Family Aspiring CFP® Scholarship. The purpose of this scholarship is to expand the support of students in the Scott College of Business who have aspirations of becoming a CFP®.
“Student success is an initiative that is near and dear to my heart,” said Kate Sullivan. “My hope with this gift is that it inspires others to give. The sooner you start, the more people you will impact, and the larger the impact you will make.”
Both the McCollums and Sullivan are outstanding examples of individuals giving back to the University and doing so at an early stage in their life. Their involvement makes a real difference in the lives of students and serves as an inspiration of how it's never too early to start giving back.
“Nick, Makayla, and Kate have set a powerful example of leadership and generosity in establishing these endowed scholarships,” said Andrea Angel, Vice President of the Division of University Advancement and CEO of the Indiana State University Foundation. “Their vision and dedication are invaluable assets to our university and our community. We are truly appreciative of their support and confidence in our mission to foster the success of Sycamores for years to come.”
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