Family of College of DuPage alumna Susan Alice Scanlan Krenek set up scholarship in her memory

The family of College of DuPage alumna Susan Alice Scanlan Krenek has established an endowed scholarship of $25,000 in their daughter's memory to offer financial assistance to future second-year, full-time COD students.

Krenek, who graduated from COD in 1980 with honors and transferred to Illinois State University, discovered her love for education at College of DuPage, said her mother, Phyllis Scanlan. It was also at COD where she met her husband of 36 years, Steven Krenek.

"Susan left a love for education and a legacy of caring for others which her family has sought to continue with this scholarship in her name," she said. "Susan struggled academically in high school, so she decided to use her hard-earned money to attend COD to stay motivated. She took great pride in that decision. She loved her classes, achieved academic success and had caring teachers who encouraged and challenged her. It was at COD she learned her true potential."

Krenek's professional endeavors took her from the classroom as a teaching assistant to retail sales to marketing and event planning for toy and gaming companies. Later in life, she became a swim instructor helping adults overcome their fear of water.

"Susan's life was more than the things she did," Scanlan said. "She was a wonderful, kind, creative woman who always looked out and cared for others. With this scholarship, we hope students will find their passion at COD without having to worry about the financial burden. Her impact can last in perpetuity."

Endowments to the COD Foundation allow donors to make stable philanthropic investments that can guarantee support for the college and students into the future, said COD Foundation Executive Director Karen Kuhn.

"We are honored to be a part of preserving Susan's legacy at COD," she said. "This scholarship will positively impact the lives of students for years to come."

The College of DuPage Foundation, established in 1967, provides for the educational development and welfare of the college and its students. Its mission is to obtain and steward philanthropic contributions to expand educational and cultural opportunities for the College of DuPage community.

For information, visit foundation.cod.edu.