Skip and Susan Koosmann

Skip and Susan Koosmann are longtime supporters of the university. The couple have made contributions to the UWRF Foundation yearly for more than 25 years. They both have fond memories of their time at UWRF.

“Learning has always been exciting to me and UWRF provided that environment," said Skip, who graduated in 1973 with a degree in Business Administration. "I think fall quarter was the most favored for me as it marked the end of a summer of hard work and the beginning of new experiences, new people and another step in the process of getting that degree."

Meanwhile, Susan remembers appreciating the one-on-one contact with the faculty.  

“A notable feature of being a student at UWRF was the access to the faculty," said Susan, a 1970 English graduate who earned her master's degree in 2002. "Class sizes were smaller and the professors knew you by name and were willing to discuss issues. One of my most influential experiences was the Quarter Abroad Program in the late 60’s when I did research on theater trends in London. Years later, those experiences were main considerations when choosing UWRF to complete a MST degree in English.”

Neither Koosmann used scholarships to pay for college, but they support them today because they are concerned about the rising cost of an higher education and enjoy helping students. 

“In the early years, after graduation, my giving to the university was merely a response to a call from the Foundation making a request for donations to the annual fund," Skip said. "Since being married and having children who would attend college, the cost of an education became more real and immediate. This brings about an awareness that wasn’t there in my younger years.” 

The Koosmanns support UWRF in two major ways, providing both unrestricted and restricted contributions. They give each year to the unrestricted Falcon Annual Fund, which, unlike other kinds of contributions, can be used by the UWRF to fund any pressing needs, and it supports the Foundation and Alumni Relations. 

The couple also make restricted contributions to the Robert R. and M. Susan Beck Memorial Scholarship benefiting English students. The endowment is in honor of two of Susan’s professors.

They are proud to be alumni, and remain active in alumni events. They Koosmanns have attended alumni wine tastings, river boat excursions, homecoming events and even a trip to Scotland. 

They also never miss a chance to encourage other alumni to support the university as well.

“When the opportunity presents itself, reflect on your experiences at UWRF and share your gift with future alumni," Skip said. 

Susan ('70 & '02) and Skip ('73) Koosmann

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