The Marshall University Foundation has announced a $500,000 gift to establish the William T. and Lois M. Leith Scholarship for the Lewis College of Business. The scholarship is generously endowed by the Leiths, who believe in the power of education.
“Marshall has a special place in our hearts,” Bill Leith said. “It’s where Lois and I met and we just love the school. We value education and have always wanted to give back to the university. When the opportunity arose, we wanted to make this scholarship a reality.”
The Leiths graduated from Marshall in 1969, Bill Leith with a degree in business management and Lois Leith with a degree in home economics.
After graduation, Bill Leith embarked on a fulfilling career in the paper and packaging distribution industry. He founded SupplyOne in 1998, combining family-owned businesses to create a national packaging manufacturing and distribution network. Today, the company operates in the U.S. and Canada with 60 locations, with Bill Leith serving as the executive chairman.
Lois (Maynard) Leith has deep family ties to Marshall, with both her parents earning degrees there before starting their careers in education. After graduation, Lois Leith shared her passion for teaching in the Virginia school system while raising their daughters, Michelle and Laura.
“This meaningful investment in our students will directly impact scholarship recipients, by easing financial barriers and empowering them to focus on their education and future careers in business,” said Nico Karagosian, president and CEO of the Marshall University Foundation.
The Leiths hope their scholarship will inspire current business students, demonstrating how a Marshall education can pave the way for success.
“I have always had a love for Marshall, and now that I am retired, I want to give back, share my experiences with students, and encourage them to pursue their passion and aspire to great things, just as Marshall helped me,” Bill Leith said.
The recipient will be a full-time or part-time undergraduate or graduate student who is a major in the Lewis College of Business.
The award is renewable for up to four years, or eight semesters, provided the recipient maintains good academic standing in accordance with the standards set by the Office of Student Financial Assistance. The dean of the Lewis College of Business or their designee will select the recipient and oversee renewal of the award in cooperation with the Office of Student Financial Assistance.
For information regarding the William T. and Lois M. Leith Scholarship for the Lewis College of Business, please contact Marshall University’s Office of Student Financial Assistance at 304-696-3162.