KU Giving Magazine
Louis Cobb
Grad Student | Masters: Architecture & Construction Management
I was born and raised in the heart of Chicago. Now I’m about to graduate from KU with a dual master’s degree in architecture and construction management. I’ve spent almost six years in Lawrence and am proud to call this place home. My time at KU has been filled with education and community, giving me the opportunity to serve as a resident advisor for four years and as an assistant complex director for the last year and a half. This role greatly shaped the person I’ve become and let me help many incoming residents year after year. I have spent 25% of my life as a student at KU, and now I look forward to becoming an alumnus. Scholarships have made KU affordable for me — and really given me the best six years of my life.
Sydney Clark
Senior | Major: Journalism
My journey to KU started with my family — proud Jayhawks who bleed crimson and blue. I learned early on in my life that Jayhawk Nation was more than just sports fans or alumni, but a true family. I’ve seen this firsthand in my time at KU as a multimedia journalism major. My passion for sports broadcasting has let me do everything from getting in front of the camera to working behind the scenes, and each experience has helped me grow as a journalist. Coming to KU was the best decision I’ve ever made, and this school continues to impact my life in ways that escape words. The financial security I’ve been given because of donor support has allowed me to really cherish and fully experience the last four years.
Sydney Clark
Senior | Major: Journalism
My journey to KU started with my family — proud Jayhawks who bleed crimson and blue. I learned early on in my life that Jayhawk Nation was more than just sports fans or alumni, but a true family. I’ve seen this firsthand in my time at KU as a multimedia journalism major. My passion for sports broadcasting has let me do everything from getting in front of the camera to working behind the scenes, and each experience has helped me grow as a journalist. Coming to KU was the best decision I’ve ever made, and this school continues to impact my life in ways that escape words. The financial security I’ve been given because of donor support has allowed me to really cherish and fully experience the last four years.
Kameron L. King
2nd Year Medical Student
I am a non-traditional student from Conway, Arkansas, now in my second year at the KU School of Medicine. Originally, I majored in broadcast journalism, but I quickly found out that life was not for me. It wasn’t until the birth of my first child and the experience of watching my wife’s epidural that medicine became my path. I changed my major after being out of school for a period of time and began pursuing a medical career, because I knew that was my calling. Three months ago, my wife and I welcomed our second child into our family. I don’t think I would be here if it weren’t for donors; they have truly allowed me to realize not only what I’m capable of but what I can provide for people in the future.
Steven W. Stites, M.D.
Executive Vice Chancellor of The University of Kansas Medical Center
I’ve been proud to be a part of the University of Kansas for 34 years. In that time, I’ve seen firsthand how higher education translates into discoveries that change — and even save — lives. At KU Medical Center, students aren’t just learning — they’re exploring new ideas through research that builds stronger communities and fuels life-saving breakthroughs. In fact, 60-70% of all new drugs used to treat disease originate in university research labs like ours. I believe the magic happens when the philanthropic and scientific communities come together. That powerful combination gives students the opportunity to make real impact — here in Kansas and around the world.
Steven W. Stites, M.D.
Executive Vice Chancellor of The University of Kansas Medical Center
I’ve been proud to be a part of the University of Kansas for 34 years. In that time, I’ve seen firsthand how higher education translates into discoveries that change — and even save — lives. At KU Medical Center, students aren’t just learning — they’re exploring new ideas through research that builds stronger communities and fuels life-saving breakthroughs. In fact, 60-70% of all new drugs used to treat disease originate in university research labs like ours. I believe the magic happens when the philanthropic and scientific communities come together. That powerful combination gives students the opportunity to make real impact — here in Kansas and around the world.
Susan Williams
Chair of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering at the University of Kansas
My passion is mentorship — helping students find their path and reach their potential. Each of my students receives a key from me. It’s a symbol with many meanings: the power of choice, the doors that open through education, the special pride of being a Jayhawk, and most importantly, a reminder that someone at KU genuinely cares about their journey, their success and their happiness. I believe undergraduate research is a vital part of that journey. Through hands-on lab experience, opportunities to present research across the country and the chance to think critically and develop new skills, students grow in ways that prepare them for life beyond KU. These experiences don’t just enhance their education — they shape who they become.