Waldman Family of Funds for Excellence in Higher Education

The Richard L. Waldman, Sr. Scholarship Fund was established in 2004 by William and Lesley Waldman in memory of William’s father, Richard L. Waldman, Sr. The Richard L. Waldman, Sr. Scholarship is awarded annually with first consideration given to a student who has graduated from an Akron Public Schools high school. The recipient must demonstrate excellent ethical and moral behavior and exhibit a strong interest in learning. The recipient must have a 3.0 minimum grade point average from high school and maintain a 3.0 grade point average or higher as undergraduate student at The University of Akron. The Office of Student Financial Aid is responsible for selecting The Richard L. Waldman, Sr. Scholarship recipient.

Uniquely created to address extenuating circumstances or challenging economic times, the Waldman Family of Funds allows the Waldman family the ability to, if needed, pool and rebalance annual award income. To exercise this option, notice in writing needs to be sent to The University of Akron Foundation by January 31st of each year. Additionally, the Waldman family will receive a single annual report on the status of its Family of Funds and have the opportunity annually to meet Waldman scholarship recipients.

With a strong belief that higher education prepares individuals to think critically and become leaders in developing workforce innovations, the Waldman family plays a vital role in supporting students at The . University of Akron.

As the cost of higher education continues to rise it is even more important to ensure that young people continue to have the opportunity to obtain a four-year degree.

The legacy of the Waldman family in higher education can be seen through the service of William C. Waldman. Mr. Waldman served The University of Akron as Chairman of the College of Fine & Applied Arts Advancement Council and as secretary of The University of Akron Foundation. Together with his wife, Lesley, Mr. Waldman created The Waldman Family of Funds for Excellence in Higher Education, which houses the Waldman family’s portfolio of scholarship funds.

Through their support of scholarships, the Waldman family’s goal is to challenge and motivate each student recipient to reach his or her full potential. The Waldman Family of Funds for Excellence in Higher Education portfolio consists of three distinct and separate scholarship funds for students. They are: The William C. Waldman Scholarship in Art, The Richard L. Waldman, Jr. Scholarship Fund and The Richard L. Waldman, Sr. Scholarship Fund.