Alumna empowers students through major planned gift inspired by alumni volunteerism at CU-Lock Haven

For Marsha (Peterson) Kaiser '76, Lock Haven State College (now Commonwealth University-Lock Haven) was more than just a place to earn a degree - it was where she discovered her potential, formed lifelong friendships and built the foundation for a successful career. Now, through a transformative major planned gift, Kaiser, and her husband, Bob, are ensuring that future first-generation CU-Lock Haven students and Zeta Tau Alpha sisters will have the same lifechanging opportunities that helped shape her life.

As the first in her family to attend college, Kaiser faced the same uncertainties that many of today's first-generation students experience. But at Lock Haven, she found a supportive community that helped her thrive. Her involvement with the sorority Zeta Tau Alpha gave her a sense of belonging, leadership skills and friendships that have lasted a lifetime.

"Lock Haven gave me the confidence to believe in myself and pursue opportunities I never thought possible," Kaiser said. "The education and experiences I gained opened doors for me, and I want to make sure future students have those same chances."

Kaiser's education propelled her into a distinguished career. Despite her professional success, she always felt a pull to reconnect with Lock Haven and give back to the community that had given her so much. That opportunity came when Kaiser returned to campus for the 50th Anniversary of the Zeta Nu chapter of Zeta Tau Alpha in 2019, followed by numerous trips back to Lock Haven to celebrate homecoming festivities, and other events. Through years of alumni engagement, she eventually began volunteering with Lock Haven's Office of Alumni and Professional Engagement.

Serving on alumni panels and mentoring students gave her firsthand insight into students' evolving needs and the impact of alumni guidance. Through her volunteer work, she met students facing the same challenges she experienced - talented, hardworking individuals striving for a better future, while overcoming personal and financial obstacles.

"Interacting with students today reminds me of my own journey," Kaiser said. "Many of them are balancing school, jobs and family responsibilities, just like I did. I wanted to make sure that financial hardship does not stand in the way of their success."

Her dedication to volunteerism reinforced her belief in the power of philanthropy. Inspired by the resilience and determination of current students, Kaiser decided to make a planned gift to the Lock Haven University Foundation (LHUF) that would extend beyond her lifetime and leave a lasting impact on students for generations to come.

"I believe in paying it forward," Kaiser said. "By supporting students who face the same challenges I did, I hope to ease their burden and inspire them to reach their full potential."

With her gift, Kaiser joined the esteemed Legacy Society, the LHUF's planned giving society which honors alumni and friends whose gifts will continue to shape the future of the university in perpetuity. For Kaiser, being part of this distinguished group is both an honor and a responsibility.

"Becoming a member of the Legacy Society is incredibly meaningful to me," she shared. "It's about leaving a legacy of opportunity and ensuring that students, especially first-generation students and my Zeta Tau Alpha sisters, have the support they need to succeed."

"You don't have to be wealthy to make an impact," she added. "A planned gift, no matter the size, can change lives and ensure that Lock Haven remains a place where students can dream big and achieve their goals."