BLOOMINGTON, In. – The Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs is honored to announce a generous $1 million estate gift from Thomas C. Graham, the late father of former dean and current professor John D. Graham, which will support the Thomas C. Graham Scholarship and Fellowship programs.
The gift will fund study abroad scholarships and support students in the D.C. Accelerator program. Fellowships will also be awarded to doctoral students and support manufacturing policy initiatives.
"Through his hard work, intellect and commitment, Mr. Graham became a successful businessman and philanthropist,” said Siân Mooney, dean of the O’Neill School. “We are incredibly appreciative of his support of education and the O’Neill School. As we strive to cultivate global leaders in public affairs, this transformative donation will empower our students to engage with diverse perspectives and immerse themselves in invaluable experiential learning opportunities. We could not be more thankful for all the Graham family has done for the O’Neill School, and the Thomas C. Graham Scholarship and Fellowship programs will be an enduring legacy to their impact.”
A native of Pennsylvania, Mr. Graham was accepted into the Navy V-12 program after graduating from high school. He attended the University of Louisville during World War II and graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering. He married his high school sweetheart, Irene and embarked on a career spanning more than 50 years in the American steel industry, starting as a draftsman and advancing through the ranks to become CEO of Fortune 500 companies.
“Tom accomplished so much in his life,” said Irene Graham, Thomas’ wife. “I know that he would want to enable that opportunity for other who, like him, have the drive and tenacity to succeed.”
John Graham served as dean of the O’Neill School from 2008-19 where he continues as a faculty member.
“My Dad was impressed with the O’Neill School,” John Graham said. “He was eager to support students likely to make a difference in public policy.”
The Thomas C. Graham Scholarship and Fellowship programs will be available to students at the O’Neill School’s Bloomington and Indianapolis locations.