Making a difference

Sandy Frederick is still an integral part of Kirkwood Community College and its outreach, despite succumbing to cancer in 2001.

Thanks to the Sandy Frederick Memorial Endowed Scholarship established in 2001 by her husband Gary and children Amy Hussel and Adam Frederick, Sandy continues to support and encourage Kirkwood students.

Sandy Frederick's remarkable, compassionate commitment to her work with students in Kirkwood's Advising Center became a significant part of who she was: someone whose love of education fueled her outreach to students needing guidance. She helped them believe in themselves. Students sought her out and trusted her advice. Sandy's love for her work prompted her to move from part-time to full-time work in the Advising Center so she could help more students.

"Sandy was dedicated to her work at Kirkwood and was proud of her opportunity to impact student lives through academic advising and testing," Gary Frederick explains. "This scholarship represents an excellent way to continue her memory. This is especially important to our immediate family."

Sandy flourished in her 15 years at Kirkwood, Gary adds, "and believed that student success was a reflection of Kirkwood's supportive and positive environment."

The scholarship in her name has kept her an integral part of that positive environment, still inspiring and enabling students to pursue their dreams through Kirkwood. Since 2001, the fund's support has helped many students continue and complete their education at Kirkwood. The recipients take time to thank the Frederick family for giving them financial assistance at a critical time in their education.

"It's always rewarding to receive 'thank you' letters from the students chosen for the scholarship," Gary says. "Student letters convince me more than ever that offering educational financial assistance is an excellent way to help others and maintain the memory of a loved one."