Joanna Kirk and Charles '74 Strickland
Why did you choose to create a scholarship at SUNY Geneseo?
I have worked at SUNY Geneseo since early 1997, in both administration – communications, publication, media and alumni relations – and teaching – from 1997-98 and again 2008 to the present. I have also taken 15 credits in Spanish, and audited various other classes. My experience in the administration, student body, and teaching faculty made me realize that Geneseo is a super-high-quality institution for its entire community.
My husband, Charles (Chuck) Strickland (Class of 1974, Biology) and I met in Sri Lanka in 1985. We subsequently married and (after 9 years in South Asia and a year in DC) moved to the Geneseo area, because of his - and mine, after visiting - interest in, and love for, the area.
What would you want the recipients of this scholarship to know about the person for whom it is named?
It’s named for me, which is entirely egotistic, but, in all honesty, it started because I gained some income through my position as writer/editor/media relations professional in the Division of Advancement. The New York State Lottery filmed an ad on our campus, among others, and put me in the clip, which earned me several thousand in actor earnings. True story. Although I was not obliged to hand these over (having worked for federal government this surprised me) I decided to set up an endowed scholarship, and we – Chuck and I – added enough to make it so.
Tell us about your Geneseo memory, favorite tradition, or what Geneseo has meant to you?
From the moment I met Chuck, I knew he wanted to return to the Genesee Valley, because of Geneseo. And we connected with some of his former professors and fellow alumni after we got here. For me, study abroad and other international experience was core to my development. And in the 21st century, all liberal arts students should travel. I lead a study abroad class on development to Ghana, and encourage all my students and advisees to travels. Hence the JK One World Scholarship to help students to do so.
What do you hope recipients gain through this scholarship?
Experience that will open their hearts and minds. That sounds cliched (and it is) but the potential is enormous.
-Joanna Kirk