The Importance of Molding Future Leaders

Nancy Kralik (M.S. ‘82, Civil/Environmental Engineering) appreciates the importance of helping the next generation.

Over the years, she has been giving back to the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, often in memory of her late husband Gerald Kralik (‘82, Computer Science). Her gifts have impacted graduate fellowships, Tier One scholarships, environmental science, the STEM Teaching Equity Project for physics high school teachers, as well as NSM’s initiative to create a Student Learning Commons.

“I have been fortunate in my career and would like to make opportunities available to other people, especially as they receive higher education and move forward in their careers,” said Kralik, who serves as vice chair of the NSM Dean’s Advisory Board.

Fueling the Small-Ticket Items

Kralik saw a need to support what she calls “small-ticket” items in the Department of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences. As a result, she set up the Kralik Family Endowment in Environmental Science to address those issues.

“Often people give donations that address big-ticket items, like equipment. But, for the air quality monitoring program, the operating costs, like maintenance of and parts for the equipment, are also necessary, as is fuel to drive the mobile air-quality monitoring units,” Kralik said. “Our family’s endowment is earmarked to provide funds for those smaller, but extremely necessary, items.”

She hopes the endowment will enable atmospheric sciences faculty to continue to do quality research, as well as provide students the opportunity to participate in the research.

Corporate Matching Programs Amplify Giving

Kralik encourages potential donors to check their company’s guidelines for what types of philanthropic gifts it will match.

“The matching funds substantially increase the value of your gift, and your company learns what philanthropy is important to you,” she said. “It is ‘easy money;’ all you have to do is complete the paperwork.”

The Impact of Volunteerism and Giving

In September, Kralik will become chair of the Dean’s Advisory Board. She feels the experience on the board has brought her closer to the workings of UH and NSM.

“I’m more aware of the issues involved in bringing high-quality education to students,” she said. “I’ve also become aware of how volunteers can assist and are critical to the success of NSM and UH.”

Kralik feels there is always more that can be done, and the students appreciate the efforts of alumni and friends of the College. “Our efforts can open doors for the next generation,” she said.

Kathy Major, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics