The Xavier students who receive a gift from the “Brian McCormick Memorial Fund” always send me a thank you note. It is my privilege to read their inspiring letters first and I am always amazed at their stories. Their determination, hope, and desire to succeed leap off the page. I know my brother is pleased to give a hand up to these rising stars from Xavier University. Though they write to me, I urge everyone to think these letters are written to you. There is no doubt these future leaders will make an incredible impact on society one day and their current and future success could not have happened without your generosity.
God bless, Matt
Dear Mr. McCormick:
My name is _____ ____ and I am a junior occupational therapy major at Xavier University. Though you did not know it, you blessed me in a very special way today. I received funding from the memorial fund on behalf of you brother Brian. I come from a very modest financial background and staying at Xavier each semester is a small miracle. My being here is proof that God’s plans are always greater than our dreams.
Today, I lift up you and your family in prayers of thanks and immense gratitude. And, I assure you that your brother’s legacy is continuing to change lives. I thank you a thousand times over and wish that there were words to convey my wonder, appreciation, and relief from your gift.
This year, I am thankful for the McCormick’s for changing my life and helping me enable me to achieve my dreams and to change the life of others as an occupational therapist. Form the bottom of my heart I thank your financial blessing and for enabling me to continue my education.
Sincerely sending you gratitude and blessings,
Name withheld
Dear Matthew:
First, I would like to tell you a little about myself. I am a senior marketing major at Xavier University. During the school year, I work on campus and at a grocery store on the weekends (which become a full time job in the summer months.) Also, during the fall, I referee 4th to 7th grade students’ city soccer games.
As I’ve worked a lot before I came to college, I was able to pay for my education with the help of scholarships and state loans until recently. I seemed to run just a little short on money this semester, especially with scheduling. I was in a panic with my account on hold, so I spoke to Adrian Schiess. He granted me $500 from “the Brian McCormick Memorial Fund” you established at Xavier.
Not only do I appreciate your thoughtfulness and generosity to the university in his name, but I somewhat understand your experience. On September 30, 2007, I lost one of my older brothers to the reckless act of another individual. It is a long and hard road before us, and I would like you to know that I will be hoping and praying for you and your family’s loss. I will forever be grateful for your kindness.
Sincerely,
Name withheld
Dear Mr. Matthew McCormick:
My name is ____ ____. I am a sophomore at Xavier University majoring in Entrepreneurship. I am an international student from Uganda. I came to Cincinnati a year ago with the hope that I could study at one of the best colleges in America and be shaped into a successful entrepreneur.
It’s only been a year since I joined Xavier University and I have had a remarkable journey. My experience here has gone far beyond my expectations and I have enjoyed my studies both in and out of the classroom. The Xavier Community has welcomed me despite coming from a culture only known to a few. I have got involved in school activities that have brought me out of my comfort zone and opened my eyes to a world of possibilities.
Half way through my first semester, my family and I were faced with some sad news. My father had been diagnosed with cancer. For me, this meant that the wonderful journey I had embarked on was soon going to end. However, my parents continued to work hard to pay off my tuition bill while paying for my Father’s medical bills. It has been a struggle and even though we continue to work hard and pay off these bills, we are deeply humbled by your generosity.
I did not have the privilege to register earlier because my account had a hold on it. It is from your grant that I wish to share with you my joy and happiness that I was able to register for my fall 2009 classes. I have worked four jobs this summer in order to reduce the burden my parents have to pay for my tuition. I have had to move off campus to find cheaper accommodations and I will start commuting this fall.
As an international student, it is difficult for me to get a student loan or any form of financial aid because I am not a US citizen. And, at this time when the economy is suffering, I cannot even get a cosigner to access a loan.
It’s from people with your generosity and giving nature that I am able to continue with my studies. I have great relief in knowing that in May of 2012 I will graduate and owe it to the kind hearts that gave me grants to study in this prestigious institution.
I continue to work hard in class because you have shown faith in me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Having been raised in a Christian home, I can only pray for you and your loved ones and wish you more blessings. I am profoundly touched by your charity and I wish to open our home in Uganda to you if you ever visit. I wish to meet you sometime and thank you. I will continue to provide you updates throughout my stay at Xavier University.
Yours sincerely,
Name withheld
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