Just Do It

  Susan Bristol with College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Dean Robert Thomas

Susan Bristol has a Bachelors of Art with distinction in Political Science, graduating as a member of Phi Beta Kappa, and a Masters in Public Administration. Through her estate plan, Susan will create the Susan B. Bristol Endowed Scholarship in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

"Wayne State University is a family tradition," Susan said. "In my immediate family, there are nine Wayne State University degrees among my father, mother, brother, two sisters and myself. Having two degrees from Wayne State has helped my career and my life. When I graduated, I felt very knowledgeable in my field and well-equipped to handle multiple tasks."

"The education Wayne State gave me was tough," she noted. "The university doesn't change the rules to make education easier. This prepares students for life in the real world after graduation. We can't change what life hands us, but we can change ourselves to meet challenges head on. That is one of the most important things I learned from my experiences at Wayne State University."

Susan attended several Anthony Wayne Society functions and thought about joining the Old Main Society as well. "Then I decided to just do it. Making a planned gift is not hard. I was brought up with the philosophy that you give to give back," Susan said. "I was fortunate to get an education, so I feel it is important to pay that forward. My personal mission statement speaks to inspiring others to realize their dreams, and by giving to Wayne State University, I am enabling that mission to take on a life of its own. I hope that the students who receive the scholarship will have a similar philosophy."