Mark and Kathi Eckerich

For Mark and Kathi Eckerich, Eastern Washington University holds a special place in their hearts. They both credit Eastern for the education that started them down successful career paths—but perhaps more importantly, for the lifelong friendships they made.

"I was always thankful for the education that I had and the friends I met here, including my husband," says Kathi '71 with a laugh.

And when asked about his favorite memories, Mark '73 has a similar answer. "Probably meeting Kathi. We'll be married 50 years next year, so we've enjoyed a long relationship," he adds.

Mark and Kathi both came to Eastern from small towns, worked their way through college, and were very involved in campus life. They met during a fraternity and sorority barbecue.

After graduation, Mark and Kathi were married and enjoyed long careers—Mark in industrial product sales and Kathi in social work and the medical field. The couple kept a close connection to Eastern and supported various areas over the years. When they decided to take their giving to the next level, they established a scholarship in their names to make a direct impact on student success while they are still alive, and also pledged to give a portion of their estate to the university that means so much to them.

"The estate part is something that anyone can do and there are even some tax advantages," Mark says. "I can't imagine not repaying Eastern for how it has helped us in our lives and hopefully help some deserving students who are struggling to finish their education."