Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. President at Ohio State University | Twitter Website
Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. President at Ohio State University | Twitter Website
The Ohio State University has honored three members of the Buckeye community for their exceptional contributions to philanthropy and volunteerism. Sarah “Sally” Ross Soter was awarded the Everett D. Reese Medal, the university's highest accolade for private philanthropy. Timothy P. and Jennifer C. Smucker received the John B. Gerlach Sr. Development Volunteer Award, recognizing their dedication to university fundraising.
“Sally Soter’s transformational investments ensure access to critical health care and fuel life-changing research at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center,” stated President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. He added, “Tim and Jenny Smucker have made a huge impact on Ohio State by funding scholarships for our students and through Tim’s service on the Board of Trustees and the Foundation Board.”
Soter became an advocate for women's health after being treated for atrial fibrillation at Ohio State’s Wexner Medical Center. Her family's $10 million donation established the Richard M. Ross Heart Hospital, named after her father, while in 2005 she created an endowed chair in women’s cardiovascular health research. Last year, she contributed $15 million to establish the Sarah Ross Soter Women’s Health Research Program at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
During Women’s Health Week in May, Ohio State will introduce The Sarah Ross Soter Women’s Community Health Day in her honor.
“I’ve always believed in research, and it’s exciting to be a catalyst for that,” said Sally Soter about her philanthropic efforts.
The Smuckers are long-time supporters of Ohio State through The J.M. Smucker Company. In 2012, they donated funds to support research at Ohio State's Agricultural Technical Institute and College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.
Their scholarships have benefited over 100 students, including marching band members supported by The Timothy P. and Jennifer C. Smucker 100% TBDBITL Scholarship.
Tim Smucker also served on The Ohio State University Board of Trustees from 2011-2020 and continues his involvement with the Foundation Board.
“It has been a privilege to support the university... We’re investing in the future,” Tim Smucker remarked regarding his ongoing commitment.
Michael C. Eicher praised their contributions: “Few people embody the spirit of giving back like Tim and Jenny... Sally’s passion for improving women’s health is second to none.”
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