Theresa Jeszka Drew, ’79, knows the value of feeling seen and supported at NAU. “My professors took such an interest in me, personally. They knew me, and they wanted me to succeed,” Drew says. “That’s why I’ve given back.”
This year, Drew and her husband, Douglas, committed a $1 million blended gift to establish the Drew Summit Scholars program in NAU’s Honors College. The scholarship program is designed to attract Arizona’s top-performing high school graduates and provide progressive support throughout their four years at NAU.
“NAU and the NAU Honors College are recognized for their commitment to academic innovation and student success. In establishing the Drew Summit Scholars endowment, the Drews are setting a new standard for support, ensuring that NAU will attract the highest-achieving students in Arizona to our exceptional programs,” says Honors College Dean Kevin Gustafson.
Recipients must be in good standing within the Honors College and already hold the Lumberjack Scholarship or other merit-based award. Building on that foundation, Summit Scholars receive an additional $10,000 annually for housing and meals and up to $4,000 for experiential learning such as study abroad, internships, or community-based projects. Each cohort is mentored by a faculty or staff member, ensuring students are part of a close-knit community throughout their student tenure.
“What I really hope is that this program brings together a cohort of high-achieving students who will feel proud to be Summit Scholars,” Drew says.
“The more you make students feel special, the more likely they will succeed and graduate with a lasting sense of loyalty to NAU.”
Her vision is that Summit Scholars will enrich the university while preparing for their own futures. “These students will be leaders in the classroom, leaders on campus, and they’ll challenge their peers and professors in ways that strengthen the entire university,” she says. “They’ll graduate well-prepared for meaningful careers—and there’s a much higher probability they’ll give back. I hope it will come full circle.”
For Drew, the scholarship program is a way to help NAU attract top students, ensure they succeed throughout their education, and leave prepared for impactful careers and purposeful lives.
