For Susan Thurin, giving back to UW-Stout is both deeply personal and profoundly meaningful. It is a way to honor a shared legacy, invest in future generations and continue a lifelong commitment to education.
“No one ever regrets getting an education,” Susan said. “And no one ever regrets helping someone achieve it.”
UW‑Stout shaped the lives of both Susan and her late husband Erik, providing long, fulfilling careers rooted in teaching and a shared love of literature. Through philanthropy, Susan honored Erik’s memory in a way that reflects their deep belief in Stout’s mission and removing barriers to a Stout education. Her gifts continue to carry forward the values they both cherished, helping students pursue their academic journey with confidence, encouragement and making possible the kind of opportunity that can change a life.
“It’s been incredibly gratifying to know how great my gift is impacting the students,” Susan said. “They are appreciative, of course, but more than that, they give me a glimpse into student life today and the lasting impact I am making on the next generation.”
Even in retirement, Susan’s connection with students remains strong. As a bookstore owner, she welcomed students who would stop in to visit, conversations she came to cherish as a continuation of her life in education.
Susan’s philanthropy reflects both her values and the importance of supporting a student’s holistic educational journey. Susan’s generosity continues through the UW-Stout Foundation and Alumni Association to ensure students can successfully complete critical experiential learning experiences that can often present financial barriers.
“In the human science fields, where real-world experience is essential to serving others and strengthening communities, this support is especially meaningful,” she said. “It feels good to help students as they complete their academic journey, when they’re close to beginning their careers but may need that extra support to get there.”
For Susan, supporting students is not simply an act of generosity, it is part of who she is. It’s the #StoutProud way.
“I’ve loved school since my very first day,” she said. “Being a lifelong teacher shaped my life, and supporting education will always be important to me.”
Her philosophy on giving is grounded in a belief that generosity creates growth and opportunity.
One of Susan’s favorite quotes by Thornton Wilder is, “Money is like manure; it’s not worth a thing unless it’s spread around encouraging young things to grow.”
Susan’s memories of UW-Stout remain vivid. She recalls the modulux classrooms, a two-story build located in the center of campus. The temporary setting fostered a deep sense of community among faculty and students alike.
That sense of community continues to define the #StoutProud community today. Its polytechnic approach brings together students, faculty and staff in applied learning environments that prepare graduates for meaningful careers and lives of purpose.
Through the UW-Stout Foundation and Alumni Association, philanthropy strengthens the #StoutProud community by removing barriers to a polytechnic education, providing robust individualized student support, advancing academic innovation and success, creating dynamic living and learning environments and enriching a vibrant campus life – all that encompasses a UW-Stout, polytechnic education.
Susan’s story reflects what is possible with flexible philanthropy, investments that support the entire #StoutProud campus community.
Susan concludes, “The #StoutProud community is people helping people, we return the favor by giving someone else a boost when needed.”
Your gift to UW-Stout provides opportunities for members of our #StoutProud community by removing financial barriers to a Stout education, providing robust and individualized student support, advancing academic innovation and success, creating dynamic living and learning spaces while ensuring a vibrant campus community – the full Stout Experience. Through your philanthropic support you provide the necessary flexible funds to ensure Stout thrives and continues to make positive impact on industry, in our communities and on society. Make your gift today.
