In memory of Anita M. Gilleo (1924 - 2023)
As a beloved philanthropist and artist, Anita M. Gilleo was a lifelong learner and traveled worldwide before returning to her hometown of Grand Rapids. Anita graduated from the University of Michigan in 1944 after earning a bachelor's degree. Her love of the Wolverines inspired her continued support of the University of Michigan G R Alumnae Trust Scholarship Fund, a scholarship fund at Grand Rapids Community Foundation which supports women at the University of Michigan. Anita continued her education and completed her master's degree at the American University of Beirut and her doctorate of Arts in Government at Idaho State University. Her educational interests were as varied, as Anita completed programs in English, Middle Eastern Studies, and Political Science. Anita was the granddaughter of renowned artist, Mathias Alten, and generously donated his pieces to organizations around West Michigan, including the Community Foundation. Her support of education and art extended far beyond the University of Michigan G R Alumnae Trust Scholarship Fund, including establishing the Mathias Alten Memorial Award at Ferris State University and the M. Alten Gilleo Distinguished Lecture Series at the University of Michigan. (Photo Credit: Ferris State University, 2015)
We are honored to accept donations in memory of Anita M. Gilleo and to support her legacy of increasing educational access for students in West Michigan. Please complete the form below to make a gift in her memory to the University of Michigan G R Alumnae Trust Scholarship Fund.