Soloman sees education as key to the future

Toledo resident works with BGSU to expand opportunities across the region

By Terri Carroll

"Barring man-made disasters, the next twenty years in America are going to be another Golden Age," Donald Solomon of Toledo, Ohio said. "As we exit two wars and avoid a third, we have laid the foundation for an America which will lead the world technologically while rebuilding our infrastructure and repositioning our country in the family of nations. But one must be educated in order to participate in this dynamic society."

For Solomon, this statement isn't just an intellectual exercise; it is a call to action. He is passionate about supporting institutions that not only promote education in Northwest Ohio, but also provide pathways for people to put that education to good use for the region's future.

“It is rewarding to give young people an opportunity to prepare themselves for the coming America. Nothing we do in life will be more rewarding.” —Donald Solomon

When he met BGSU President Mary Ellen Mazey at a recent alumni event at the Toledo Club, Solomon said, "I immediately recognized a leader whose integrity, commitment, vision and forceful personality would lead a faculty of more than 800, a support staff of more than 1,400, and a student body of almost 20,000 into the next decade."

Within months of meeting Dr. Mazey, he provided two gifts to the University to help make his vision of more educational opportunities a reality. With a total pledge of $90,000, Solomon has already provided $30,000 to the Mazey Presidential Scholarship, affecting the lives of three students at BGSU.

"I am amazed by the generosity of a man who was willing to help fund my education before he even met me," said Lisa Ade, a Mazey Presidential Scholarship recipient.

"I've gotten to know Mr. Solomon since he made this gift, and truly appreciate him. It is people like him that help people like me reach our ambitions. Since I am funding my own education, this scholarship really lightens my financial burden. Upon graduation, I plan to apply my education in chemistry and go in to research and development."

"We are fortunate to know him," Mary Morrison, director of development for the BGSU College of Business Administration said. "His gift will provide two scholarships per year for the next four years."

"I encourage those with the means to join me in funding these Presidential scholarships - or any scholarship that meets your passion," Solomon said. "It is rewarding to give young people an opportunity to prepare themselves for the coming America. Nothing we do in life will be more rewarding."