David Lambeth Funds Scholarships for Future Educators with IRA Gifts

David O. Lambeth ’62 recalls feeling connected to Mizzou since childhood. His uncle received his BS, MS, and PhD from MU and was a professor of horticulture for many years. His father attended for more than a year until illness caused him to delay his studies. “I remember I would sit down with my father’s copy of Savitar and thumb through it thinking one day I would like to go to the University of Missouri,” he says.

In addition to his longtime support of the College of Education, Dave has also designated his IRA for charitable giving. “The ability to make gifts tax-free from a tax-deferred account is important to me,” he says. “I envision that each year a scholarship will be awarded to a student in the College of Education who is planning to teach in one of the STEM subjects.”

Now retired after 34 years as a professor of biochemistry, Dave still follows MU athletics. “I was a dedicated student,” he says. “I attended all football games and most basketball games. I matured as a person, decided on majors that led to a fulfilling career in education, and developed interests in lifelong learning.”

Scholarships and awards not only helped Dave financially but also provided encouragement that he was on the right track with his education. “I have a strong desire to give back and pay it forward for the help that I received,” he says.

Dave encourages others to consider the type of legacy gift they could leave to support future students. “I, along with many others, have been able to pursue careers that were financially rewarding,” he concludes. “It’s a good time in our lives to pay back!”