Philanthropic by Nature, by Heart...

Throughout her life, Dona Cormier, B.S. '85, has learned the importance of giving back to her church, community and Florida State University. "Philanthropy fills a void that work can't do," she explains. "It's kind of self-perpetuating. I got the work because of getting the FSU degree. It's now my job to help my fellow man."

Dona came to FSU while working with the Leon County Sheriff's Office. Post-graduation, "the work" she refers to was serving as Leon County's first female Road Deputy, working in crime scene investigation and crime analysis for many years. She attributes much of her career success to the educational foundation she received at FSU.

When Dona and husband, Ken, B.S. '79, began drafting their wills, they immediately turned to philanthropy. Having decided to include FSU academics and athletics in their estate plans, they reached out to the FSU Foundation for assistance. The Kenneth W. Cormier Endowed Graduate Fellowship in Accounting was created to provide support to students studying Accounting in the College of Business, and now, in memory of Ken, will service as a lasting tribute to his vision. They also established The Dona R. Cormier Internship in Criminology Endowment to provide support for the College of Criminology internship program, where Dona's valued participation as both a student intern and an internship sponsor held significant meaning to her.

Wanting to witness her bequest come to fruition today, Dona has already made endowment contributions. She is thrilled to hear of the internship program's current success and growth. "It just enlightens your heart," Dona explains. "It's a double blessing — for those who give, as well as those impacted."