A Lasting Legacy

Seattle University recently received a generous gift of $1.85 million from Steven Rogel in honor of his late wife Connie. The gift continues a legacy of philanthropy that he and Connie began building decades ago. This latest contribution underscores their commitment to enhancing educational opportunities at the university, particularly in teacher education, nursing and STEM disciplines. This gift follows an endowment created for the inaugural Rogel Professorship in the College of Science and Engineering, awarded to Associate Professor Stephen Luckey, PhD, in 2022.

The Rogels’ commitment to Seattle University dates back to their early years together. Connie Rogel, a 1967 graduate of the College of Education, was passionate about teaching and caring for others. After completing her education at Seattle University, she went on to pursue graduate studies, eventually becoming deeply involved in volunteer work and community service. Her impact extended to various boards, including the SU Board of Regents.

The Rogels’ support for Seattle University has been transformational. In addition to the Rogel Professorship they have contributed to the construction of the rain garden at the Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons, along with establishing the Rogel Anatomy and Physiology Lab.

Notably, their latest gift establishes the Rogel Equipment Endowment, which will support the purchase and maintenance of advanced scientific equipment for teaching and research in STEM fields, with a focus on biotechnology, and health care education.

In addition to the equipment endowment, the Rogels also established scholarships to support students pursuing teaching and nursing degrees. The Connie R. Rogel Endowed Scholarship for Teacher Education will support master’s students in education, particularly those interested in teaching STEM subjects. Similarly, the Rogel Endowed Nursing Scholarship assists students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, with a focus on gerontology, or the study of aging adults. With the professorship, the focus is on a faculty member who is conducting bio-medical or bio-engineering research while engaging with and including undergraduate student researchers.

The impact of these latest scholarships extends beyond financial assistance—they empower students to pursue their academic and professional aspirations. The criteria for these scholarships reflect the Rogels’ values, which emphasize financial need, academic achievement and a commitment to community service, particularly for students from rural or underserved areas.

The legacy of Steven and Connie Rogel at Seattle University is not merely one of financial generosity but of a profound interest in nurturing the next generation of educators and health care professionals. As their contributions continue to elevate the university's programs and facilities, their spirit of compassion and dedication resonates throughout the campus community and beyond.

Read more about the Rogel Professorship.