Inspire, Summer 2009

advanc ing Cedarv i l le Throughout her life, Irma Dodson gave so much of herself to her students. It is no surprise that her investment continues even after her death. Irma took great pride in observing her students teaching in the classroom. Her thoughtful and detailed handwritten reports demonstrated her care for the up to 50 student teachers she supervised each term. When they struggled, she provided an honest assessment and practical recommendations to help them succeed. Her investment in students extended beyond her classroom. In 1982, she established a scholarship to help education majors become the best teachers they could be. Although she was not a woman of exceptional means, Irma developed a plan to accomplish her financial goals. Her gift annuities with Cedarville provided income during her lifetime to supplement her teacher’s pension, and Irma planned for the annuity assets to continue funding her scholarship after her death. None of this required a large initial investment. She faithfully built the scholarship over time with modest cash gifts, even after she retired in 1983. As a result, the Irma M. Dodson Award now provides $1,500 each year to an aspiring teacher. Although she never married or had children of her own, her mantle was filled with cards and photos from former students whose lives she touched in a special way. Irma passed away in 2008, but she leaves behind a legacy of caring influence. Her scholarship reflects her life and will extend her ministry for years to come. Carol Lee ’96 is the senior communication specialist for advancement at Cedarville. You may contact her at carollee@cedarville.edu . Touching a Life Forever by Carol Lee ’96 A fter 35 years as an elementary teacher, Irma Dodson had a wealth of wisdom to offer. In 1968, she bypassed a traditional retirement and began a second career teaching future teachers at Cedarville. Her students respected her work ethic, rose to her high expectations, and held a deep affection for the gentle lady who taught them everything she knew.