The Joy of Giving
June 3, 2025
Ruth Scott is one of the most transformational and generous donors in University of Nebraska history. In this Q&A, she discusses her favorite philanthropic projects and the joy of giving.
By contributing to the University of Nebraska, you become part of a vibrant community dedicated to making a lasting impact. Your generosity fuels academic excellence, groundbreaking research and community engagement, all of which shape the future of Nebraska and beyond. Every donation, no matter the size, helps create opportunities for students, supports innovative programs and enhances the university’s ability to address the challenges of tomorrow. Together, we can continue to inspire, educate and lead. Your support is not just a gift—it’s an investment in the future. Let’s make a difference, one story at a time.
Ruth Scott is one of the most transformational and generous donors in University of Nebraska history. In this Q&A, she discusses her favorite philanthropic projects and the joy of giving.
Meet four future physicians who will study in the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex in Kearney. These remarkable students aim to practice in rural Nebraska, helping to address critical workforce challenges.
“[Donors] are supporting the next generation of teachers and helping new teachers understand that they are needed and wanted. It makes an immeasurable impact.”
.”…The fund is critical in not only community building but also articulating what is going on in the UNK campus to the rest of the world, and especially to our state.”
“I think that is important because those stories are inspirational to our students who sometimes don’t know what they can do and therefore don’t dream as big as they could. Support from our donors really does provide a margin of excellence that allows us to do truly amazing things.”
“These gifts will directly involve and help students grow. It will support DREAM, our event planning and will have an impact on our future.”
“These gifts truly made it possible for me to continue doing what I want to do in life. I wouldn’t have been able to be in the position that I’m in today without this scholarship.”
“Our donors’ gifts created this opportunity where our students can be the spotlight.”
“We want students to come here and not only feel like they can connect with an adviser or connect with a tutor but also just bring a group of friends or have a student organization come and have an event in. This is their place.”
Isabel Zaruba, a student at UNK, found her path through volunteering and scholarships, showing it’s okay to take your time finding your passion.
