From the September/October 2007 issue of e-Momentum
A gift from a couple who have made global understanding their life's passion will support a strategic goal of the Neag School of Education and the University and allow more students and faculty to study abroad.
The $100,000 gift from Robert E. M.A.'51 Ph.D.'55 and Gladys B. Dunn will support Neag School student scholarships and faculty research related to international studies and global issues.
Robert, who retired from the West Hartford public schools after 38 years of service, rose to become the principal of William H. Hall High School. He also taught courses related to school administration at UConn and was a founding member and president of the UConn chapter of Phi Delta Kappa. Gladys Dunn served a long career as an elementary teacher and in secondary education as a guidance counselor at King Philip Middle School in West Hartford. Since 1958 the couple has traveled abroad extensively, visiting more than 100 countries to promote international understanding, with emphasis on the implications for education in America. For five years Mr. Dunn was the administrator and Mrs. Dunn the director of admissions at Seoul International School in Seoul, South Korea.
"Our philosophy is that we wanted to give back for all the benefits we've received and show appreciation to UConn for its impact on my life," says Mr. Dunn. "We hope we can support deserving people whose lives will be enriched through international experiences."
Their gift's focus enhances the goals of the Neag School and the University as both seek to increase the percentage of students pursuing international opportunities. The percentage of UConn students studying abroad has doubled in the past five years, reaching 16 percent in 2006–2007. Provost Peter Nicholls has established a University-wide goal of 30 percent undergraduate participation by 2010–2011.
"We are working hard to give our entire school a global perspective," says Richard L. Schwab, dean of the Neag School of Education. "Our goal is to integrate global issues into the curriculum, which is in line with the University's priorities. We're therefore extremely appreciative and excited about the Dunns' gift, which is the first in this area at our school."
The Dunns believe that study and travel abroad are vital for personal and educational development.
"Especially in these times, connections among people of other countries and cultures are so important," Mrs. Dunn says. “International experiences can't be described in books or movies. Personal contacts are meaningful and rewarding. Unless people have these opportunities, their educations are incomplete.”
To support the Robert and Gladys Dunn International Fund or the Neag School of Education, please contact the UConn Foundation's development staff.
