Michael O'Hare

Reactions to the turbulent times we are facing — whether it be to the global pandemic or civil unrest in America — are as varied as the people being affected by them. For Slippery Rock University graduate Michael O’Hare, the natural response was one of unity and generosity.

The 1974 SRU alum and his wife, Becky, recently donated $10,000 to the SRU Foundation to establish the “Unity at The Rock” Scholarship. The gift will provide two scholarships worth $1,250 per year for up to four years — for a total of $5,000 each — to a pair of incoming freshmen this fall.

Recipients will be chosen from applicants based on two criteria: one recipient will be an underrepresented minority student from Western Pennsylvania, and another will be a student whose parent is a first responder.

“At a time when America is struggling with disharmony and angst, this is a perfect time to do something for others,” said O’Hare, a retired vice president at Snyder’s of Hanover who now lives in Sunset Beach, N.C. “I learned from my wife that during unsettling times when you are feeling down, the best thing you can do is to help other people.”

O’Hare grew up in Allegheny County and graduated from Deer Lakes High School before attending SRU, where he earned a degree in elementary education. He has established multiple SRU scholarships, including gifts honoring his late first wife, his parents and his former high school football coach who is an SRU alumnus, the latter of which awarded $1,000 to 11 Deer Lakes graduates.

“We’re grateful for alumni like Mike for supporting our students and inspiring others,” said Samantha Swift, director of development for the SRU Foundation.

Those interested in helping extend the “Unity at The Rock” Scholarship beyond fall 2020 can donate by contacting the SRU Foundation at 724-738-2047 or visiting www.srufoundation.org. A list of scholarship applications is available on the university’s financial aid webpage.

Justin Zackal is a communication specialist with Slippery Rock University.