As respected leaders in the Milwaukee business and philanthropic communities, Ted and Mary Kellner announced a $2.5 million gift at a special event on December 12 to support Cardinal Stritch University, its students, academic programs, and related activities.
Mary Kellner earned an Ed.D. in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service from Stritch in 2007. She has served on the University’s Board of Trustees since 2009 and is a member of the College of Education and Leadership Advisory Council.
Mary and her daughter, Dr. Kristin Schultz, ’13, who earned a Ph.D. in Leadership with a focus on Clinical Depression and Meaning Making, are the first mother-daughter doctoral degree recipients in Stritch history.
Ted Kellner serves as Chairman and CEO of T&M Partners and the Kelben Foundation. In addition to his professional work, Ted has long served as a philanthropic leader in the State of Wisconsin. Mary and Ted’s generosity over the years has often focused on enhancing opportunities for those pursuing their educational dreams – from grade school through graduate and professional programs.
“I have seen firsthand the transformational work that happens every day at Stritch, through my own doctoral education and that of my daughter, Kristin; work with the Literacy Center; and my service on the Board of Trustees,” said Dr. Mary Kellner.
“Stritch has long played a leadership role in the greater Milwaukee community in the preparation of leaders across many fields and professions, including Mary and Kristin,” said Ted Kellner. “As we address the needs of the 21st century employers, Stritch will be an integral community partner in the preparation of those who will make an impact in the communities where they live, work and lead.”
“I want to express our profound appreciation to Ted and Mary for their belief in Stritch, our students and the leadership role Stritch can and must play in higher education,” said Kathleen A. Rinehart, J.D, Stritch President. “The transformational programs we offer are designed to prepare the whole person to succeed in a diverse and ever-changing world. The Kellner gift will enable the University to continue to prepare 21st century leaders who, in turn, will enhance the communities in which they live and work.”
The Kellners and President Rinehart were joined at the event by the University Board of Trustees; senior academic and administrative leaders; the Leadership Team of the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi, whose Congregation founded and sponsors Stritch; and members of seven University Advisory Councils, who generously provide their time, insight and expertise for Stritch’s undergraduate, graduate and professional development programs.
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Cardinal Stritch University
