Endowed scholarship created in memory of USF employee

JOLIET – The spirit and legacy of longtime University of St. Francis employee Patricia Getson will live on through an endowed scholarship created in her memory by William “Bill” ’82 and Trish (Banks ’83) Bellah.

Getson was a dedicated and joyful employee in the USF athletics department for 35 years.

“Pat served the university with respect, integrity and unbelievable compassion,” Athletic Director Dave Laketa said in a news release.

Getson was a kind, generous co-worker, according to Laketa, and she most enjoyed interacting with the students she encountered daily. The Bellahs felt it was important to create a scholarship in Getson’s memory because of the impact she had on their lives as undergraduates and several years later as alumni.

“Pat’s passion and genuine love for the school and all the students that attended, along with her constant smile and heartfelt enthusiasm, was something that made us feel a true part of the St. Francis family,” Bill Bellah said in a news release.

In 2015, the Bellahs made a "seven-figure pledge" to be used for a new science building. Previous donations from the Bellahs have gone to athletic programs, the communication and media arts department, and other uses.

The Patricia Getson Endowed Scholarship will be awarded yearly to the two junior students who have a financial need and demonstrate a strong commitment to the university and the community it serves.

A committee including Trish Bellah, the director of University Ministry, director of student life and a counselor from financial aid services will come together to choose two students who “live the Franciscan mission daily, just as Pat did.”

For information about available scholarships at the University of St. Francis, visit stfrancis.edu/giving/scholarships.