Gift from anonymous donor in the amount of $250,000 is tribute to Ryan David Reaves, an online student from Texas who graduated cum laude with a B.A. in Liberal Arts
UMass Dartmouth has received a $250,000 philanthropic gift from an anonymous donor to honor Ryan David Reaves, of Houston, Texas, an online student who graduated cum laude with a B.A. in Liberal Arts. Ryan was able to finish his degree requirements before his unfortunate passing this past December. In January, his family was presented Ryan's framed degree, commencement regalia, and a medallion with his name and UMass Dartmouth engraved on it. They were also provided written remembrances from Ryan's faculty. Ryan's name was called out during UMass Dartmouth's 2015 Commencement ceremonies.
The $250,000 will fund the Ryan Reaves Memorial Scholarship, which will go toward supporting other online undergraduate students.
UMass Dartmouth distinguishes itself as a vibrant public university actively engaged in personalized teaching and innovative research, and acting as an intellectual catalyst for regional economic, social, and cultural development. UMass Dartmouth's mandate to serve its community is realized through countless partnerships, programs, and other outreach efforts to engage the community, and apply its knowledge to help address local issues and empower others to facilitate change for all.