After 35 years as an elementary classroom teacher, Irma Dodson had a wealth of wisdom and experience to offer. In 1968, she bypassed a traditional retirement and began a second career teaching the teachers at Cedarville University. Her students respected her work ethic, rose to her high expectations, and held a deep affection for the gentle lady who taught them everything she knew.

Miss Dodson's investment in students extended beyond her classroom. In 1982, she established a scholarship to help education majors become the best teachers they could be. Although she was not a woman of exceptional means, she developed a plan to accomplish her financial goals. Over time, Irma created gift annuities with Cedarville University which provided income during her lifetime to supplement her teacher's pension. Her annuities transferred to Cedarville when she passed away in 2008 and formed the Irma M. Dodson Award. Because of her thoughtful planning, future teachers are still being touched by her life and legacy through her scholarship.

Accomplishing her goal did not require a large initial investment. She faithfully built the scholarship over time with modest cash gifts even after she retired in 1983. The Irma M. Dodson Award now provides $1,500 each year for an aspiring teacher.

Although she never married and had no children of her own, Irma Dodson's mantle was filled with cards and photos from former students whose lives she touched in a special way. Her legacy is a lifetime of caring for students. Her scholarship reflects her life and extends her ministry for years to come.

Learn how to begin your own journey of investing in the lives of Cedarville students through scholarships.