Rockhurst University
Stories of Impact
'Incredible Gift' Ensures RU Student Colleen Smyth Will Make Her Impact on World
Colleen Smyth is studying accounting and is very active in campus organizations such as Voices for Justice, Alpha Sigma Alpha and Christian Life Communities.
From her very first moments on the Rockhurst University campus, Colleen Smyth knew it was a place where she could make a difference in the world. A St. Louis area native majoring in accounting, Colleen was first drawn to Rockhurst because of its strong academics. However, it was the university's commitment to service that hooked her.
"I had a tour and did a service project during my visit. I loved it and loved the whole service aspect of Rockhurst," Colleen says. "I stayed with my friends and felt right at home at McGee Hall."
Colleen has found a home at RU, and she has also found that Rockhurst is home to some very generous alumni. Colleen is a recipient of the Iseman Family Endowed Scholarship, established by Rockhurst alumni Andrew and Shelly Iseman. The scholarship is awarded annually to deserving Catholic students who are seeking undergraduate degrees at Rockhurst University. Colleen has met her benefactors and has been inspired by the Isemans' generosity.
"I cannot imagine not going to Rockhurst; this lifts the stress off my parents' shoulders and my loans won't be so enormous. It's incredible to realize that Mr. and Mrs. Iseman believe in Rockhurst so much. It's an incredible way to give back. It's just an incredible legacy gift."
As a student, Colleen is already leaving her own legacy. She is actively involved in several campus organizations and expects her commitment to service will continue long after graduation. Her goal is to find a career where she can make a difference, both in the office and in the community.
"I want to become a CPA and see what happens. I love being in the nonprofit area. Whatever I do, I just want to make an impact."