CWU Receives $100,000 for Geography Scholarships

Alumnus Joseph Stoltman and his wife, Gillian, recently donated $100,000 to Central Washington University to establish a new endowment. The funds will provide scholarships for students in geography, resource management, and potentially other programs on campus. A 1962 graduate of the geography department, Joseph is currently a University Distinguished Scholar and longtime professor in the Department of Geography at Western Michigan University. Gillian has a doctorate in virology from University College, London.

“It was probably about 20 years ago that Gillian and I began to give to CWU each year,” said Stoltman. “We gave in memory of my cousin and long-time Ellensburg resident, Floyd (Buck) Minor, and in memory of Professor Martin Kaatz.

“The Kittitas Valley and Central were important in launching me on a successful and enjoyable career. Gillian and I have made an enduring gift to Central that will provide future students with similar opportunities through the study of geography.”

In explaining their remarkable gift to CWU, Joseph said that his former geography professors, including Robert Funderburk, Martin Kaatz, and Otto Jakubek fostered a love for exploration and that their mentorship led him to pursue his first graduate degree.

“Giving to CWU is an investment in the future,” said Stoltman. “The university is committed to building the capacity of students to apply the CWU educational experience in local communities, the state, the nation, and the world.”

Photo: Joseph and Gillian Stoltman
Media Contact: Valerie Chapman-Stockwell, Public Affairs, 509-963-1518, valeriec@cwu.edu