“The Mary Frances Grasinger, CSJ, Ph.D. Endowed Scholarship” at Duquesne University will support students pursuing a Special Education major, minor, certification, or degree who have a demonstrated interest in the Catholic faith
We are delighted to announce that Duquesne University, where Sister Mary Frances Grasinger served for thirty three years as a Professor, Associate Dean, and in leadership at the School of Education has established an annual scholarship in her honor.
“The Mary Frances Grasinger, CSJ, Ph.D. Endowed Scholarship” will provide scholarship support to students enrolled in the School of Education who have a demonstrated interest in Catholicism, Catholic faith, history, or culture, and are pursuing a major, minor, certification, or degree in Special Education. When possible, priority will be given to first-generation college students.
Sandy Leavy, catalyst for the fund along with her husband John, graduated from Duquesne with a master’s degree in special education in 1987. She met Sister Mary Frances, then serving in a leadership role in the School of Education, when interviewing for a graduate assistantship. Sandy credits her Duquesne education and top-notch professors for preparing her to achieve success in a challenging role as an Illinois middle school teacher of children with diverse special education needs.
As her career progressed, Sandy valued Sister Mary Frances’ keen wisdom and guidance. The couple remain grateful for a lifetime of friendship with Sister Mary Frances. They are delighted to honor her gifts as a strong leader, a kind and curious person, and a woman of great faith.
Sister Mary Frances and Sister Catherine Higgins visited the university this winter to celebrate with Sandy and John and to meet the first scholarship recipient. The Leavy’s generosity is inspired by the positive impact that Sister Mary Frances has had on Sandy’s life for nearly 40 years.