Kent State University is receiving a $6.4 million commitment from two local philanthropists aimed at helping nursing, fashion and music students succeed both in the classroom and beyond.
Marie Rader, a retired registered nurse, and James Angiulo, a former healthcare IT professional, are giving $400,000 outright, with another $6 million pledged through a bequest.
The money will support new scholarships, advanced learning technology, fashion design opportunities and emergency financial assistance for students.
“We just genuinely care about people,” Angiulo said. “And what better place could you spend a dollar than here at Kent State?”
Where the Money Will Go
The College of Nursing will receive $3 million, including $2 million for technology and clinical training and $1 million for scholarships benefiting students pursuing an accelerated second bachelor’s degree in nursing.
The School of Fashion will benefit from $2 million to maintain and upgrade its specialized labs, along with $400,000 for student design awards and competition support. An additional $10,000 will help students studying fashion in New York City with housing expenses.
Another $1 million will establish the James Angiulo School of Music Emergency Fund, helping students facing unexpected financial hardships pay for necessities including tuition, food, housing and emergency travel.
A Lasting Investment in Students
Both donors have personal connections to Kent State, having taken courses at the university. Angiulo earned a certificate in health informatics, while Rader developed an interest in textile dyeing and eventually led workshops for students.
Their previous contributions have helped purchase digital knitting machines, improve nursing simulation labs and support several university programs.
Kent State President Todd Diacon praised the couple’s continued generosity.
“They have already had a transformational effect on students and will continue this legacy into the future,” Diacon said.
For Rader and Angiulo, the goal extends beyond the immediate impact of their gift.
“We just love to pay it forward, and we hope that one day, people will follow our example and continue,” Angiulo said.
The couple hopes their investment will encourage others to support students and the causes they care about.
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