By Brady Gazarek

gazarekb@findlay.edu

For many students at the University of Findlay, the generosity of alumni is more than just a financial aid package – it’s a life-changing gift that shapes and develops academic journeys and future goals.

Take senior Zach Zeleznik, for example. A recipient of the TLB (The Lord’s Business) Christian Leadership Scholarship, Zeleznik recalls how receiving that scholarship influenced his decision to attend the University of Findlay over other universities offering physical therapy programs.

“I was between Cleveland State and the University of Findlay,” said Zeleznik. “Receiving that scholarship was one of the biggest ways I saw God revealing to me that he wanted me to attend Findlay. Since then, I’ve had so many opportunities to lead in the Christian community here. It’s really strengthened my faith and given me an amazing group of people.”

The TLB Christian Leadership Scholarship, like many others offered at the university, is funded in large part by alumni contributions. While some students may be only roughly aware of this support, Zeleznik believes that more students should recognize the real sacrifices alumni make to support current students.

“Students often don’t think about the fact that these are real people dipping into their savings or retirement account to fund scholarships,” he said. “They should be more aware of that generosity.”

Zeleznik suggests creating more direct connections between donors and scholarship recipients. “If students could personally thank the people who funded their scholarships – maybe even meet them for lunch – it would put a name and face to the generosity. That kind of connection could inspire more gratitude and maybe even a desire to give back one day.”

For Luke Kleman, a proud alumni of the University of Findlay as a doctor in physical therapy and former swim team member, giving back has become a natural part of life after graduation. Staying connected to the university came naturally; both because of the experiences he had as a student and his continued presence in the Findlay community.

“I actually still live just a few blocks from campus,” Kleman shared. “I get to see the campus grow and often walk across it or attend swim meets throughout the year. It’s a great way to stay involved and connected.”

Kleman supports the swim team financially each year during its Day of Giving, but he also gives back in another meaningful way, as a clinical instructor for Findlay students studying physical therapy.

“They come to me for eight to 10 weeks of hands-on training,” he said. “They learn from me, but I also learn from them. Sometimes new research or techniques come out after you’ve graduated, and working with students helps keep me sharp. It’s a win-win.”

His desire to support student-athletes is rooted in his own college experience.

“We got to go on a training trip every year, and that was my favorite part of college,” Kleman said. “It was such a special time with teammates, and I want to help ensure current students get the same experience and opportunities.”

He believes alumni have a vital role in shaping the university’s future through mentorship and financial contributions.

“Alumni can really help with networking, clinical development, or internships,” he said. “And financially, even small donations can go a long way – especially with things like the swim team’s training trip.”

For recent graduates, Kleman encourages staying engaged with the campus community.

“It helps you grow personally and helps current students,” Kleman said. “They say if you can teach something, you know it 95 percent and that means you know the content very well.”

The University of Findlay. like many private institutions, relies heavily on a strong network of alumni support to fund scholarships, enhance academic programs, and provide meaningful campus experiences. But more than just money, alumni are offering belief in the next generation in the university’s mission, and in the power of education to transform students’ lives.

For students like Zeleznik, that belief is not only seen, it’s felt.

“Because of the money alumni have provided, I’ve been inspired to give back when I become an alumni,” Zeleznik said. “That spark is something I’ll carry with me forever.”