A Father's Lesson
Dr. Bruce F. Waller believes an act of generosity can transform the world. And he teaches his children, by example, this simple and vital lesson.
A cardiologist in Indianapolis, Indiana, Bruce believes that Sasha and Brock, IU undergrads, can learn this best by helping him make a gift to the very university they are attending.
"If you are blessed financially, it's important that you try to help the less fortunate," says Bruce. "I want Brock and Sasha to get involved with making a gift during their school years now while they are on campus and can appreciate their education."
The Wallers' gift to IU will endow a scholarship in the College of Arts and Sciences forever. Bruce often gives to higher education. It's a habit grown out of a need to make the world a better place.
Treating Poverty
"I believe that poverty is best treated by education," Bruce says. "Some of the best learning institutions are public universities like IU. But some students don't have the opportunity to attend these tremendous schools or even go beyond high school in their education."
As the children of a physician, Brock and Sasha haven't had that worry. But their own dedication to their studies inspired Bruce. "They've done very well academically, and I am very proud," he beams. "When I visit Sasha and Brock, I see all these students having a great time with their education. I'd like to provide that experience to someone who may not be able to afford it."
A Family Affair
Brock Waller, a sophomore studying biology, says medicine runs in the family. Perhaps that's why the gift will go to benefit someone, who like father and son, wants to pursue medicine.
"Not too long ago, my father surprised me with the idea of making this gift," he said. "Hopefully, I will be in the same situation in the future, and I will be able to give back. If I am, you can bet I'll do the same."
Sasha L. Waller, a senior, says she wasn't as surprised by her father's suggestion. "My father is very generous in all that he does, especially when it comes to his family and his support of education," says Sasha, who is studying psychology and sociology with a minor in music.
Sasha hopes she can be just as generous in her own life. "I believe that you get what you give," she says. "The more good you do in your life the better off you are."
Teaching His Children Well
Born in Austin, Minnesota, Bruce worked throughout his college years to support his dream of becoming a doctor. But his burden was eased by a scholarship. "That was extremely helpful," he recalls. "To this day I really appreciate those people who helped me get started."
Brock says he hasn't told anyone at school about the gift yet. It's enough that he has a warm feeling about what he, his sister, and his father have done.
"I am glad that we could help the University, especially the school of arts and sciences," offers Brock. "My friends with scholarships talk about how crucial financial help is to their education, to their being here at IU. I won't lie. What we've done makes me feel pretty good."
