A Strong Foundation for the Next Generation

Illinois Wesleyan University provided a transformative experience to help launch a career in nursing for Suzanne Vertuno '70.

Now she wants a new generation of students to have that same experience.

A graduate of Illinois Wesleyan's School of Nursing, Suzanne has spent the majority of her career in nursing and healthcare in Southern California. She has been a loyal supporter of her alma mater since the day she graduated, giving back to the school that has given her so much.

"It's always felt like family and it has given me such a strong foundation on which to live the rest of my life," Suzanne says of IWU. "I use the skills I learned there every day of my life."

Suzanne is proud when she sees IWU's School of Nursing continually recognized as one of the top programs nationally. The registered nurse is equally passionate about education; an owner of a master's degree from the University of Arizona, Suzanne recently started a post-master's program to become a nurse practitioner.

"We need more good nurses," she says. "And I know the nursing program at Illinois Wesleyan, like many other programs, would not be at the level it is if not for alumni support."

Suzanne, who has listed Illinois Wesleyan as the sole beneficiary of her life insurance policy and primary beneficiary of her estate, has provided IWU regular financial support throughout her adult life, even when the amount she could afford may have seemed insignificant.

"There were times where I really didn't have a lot of money, but I gave, even if it was just $10," Suzanne says. "It's not about how much you give, it's the fact that you give, and every little bit counts."

Like Susan, you can support IWU with a gift that helps future students achieve their goals. To learn more about the many ways you can make a gift—and leave your legacy—contact Steve Seibring '81 at 309-556-3135 or [email protected].