Bruce B. and Candace M. Wagner Scholarship in Disaster Science & Emergency Services

The Bruce B. and Candace M. Wagner Scholarship in Disaster Science & Emergency Services was established in March 2021, by Bruce and Candace “Candy” Wagner, both University of Akron College of Business alumni. Their scholarship provides support to students desiring careers in disaster and emergency administration and/or firefighting services, and who exemplify leadership at UA and in the community. Bruce and Candy established this scholarship as a way to give back to the institution where they initially met.

Bruce graduated in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, majoring in Personnel Management. He worked for Petitti Garden Center and the Tallmadge Fire Department prior to joining the Cuyahoga Falls Fire Department in 1983. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1996 and retired from the department in 2011 after 28 years of honorable leadership and service. He started a rental home management business, OurHouse Properties, LLC, in 2003 and continues as CEO of the company.

Candy Wagner is a 1979 alumna with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, majoring in Finance. In 1986, she received her MBA in Finance. She most recently served as president and chief financial officer for Emerald Performance Materials, having been with the company from its startup in 2006 until her retirement in 2014. She was named president and CFO in August 2008 with responsibility for corporate governance and services. Since retirement, Candy has provided consulting and other transition services for private equity acquisitions and divestitures. She serves on the Board of Directors of Zephyr Solutions LLC, a Northeast Ohio private equity portfolio company.

Candy also serves on The University of Akron President’s Advisory Council, the College of Business Advancement Council and previously on the Department of Finance Advisory Board.

The Bruce B. and Candace M. Wagner Scholarship in Disaster Science & Emergency Services will support students demonstrating leadership in their school, discipline, or community and who have financial need. Recipients of the Wagner Scholarship will be in good standing as full-time students admitted to the School of Disaster Science & Emergency Services. First consideration will be given to student(s) who desire a career as a firefighter. Recipient selection will be made by the School of Disaster Science & Emergency Services Scholarship Committee.