​​Passing on the Oiler Spirit: Kelly '03 and Kirstie '13 Ernst

Kelly and Kirstie Ernst—who graduated from University of Findlay in 2003 and 2013 respectively—aren’t the only Oilers in the family. Kelly, who will took on the role of president of the Alumni Board of Governors in the fall of 2015, says she and her family are “true Oiler fans,” and they have a passion for passing it on.
Along with her husband Tom, Kelly was excited to create the Thomas, Kelly ’03 and Kirstie ’13 Ernst Family Scholarship. In addition, through a matching gift from Tom’s employer, they will be able to significantly increase the size of their gift.
“The opportunity to study at UF provided great opportunities for our family, and we want new students to experience those same opportunities,” said Kelly. “Receiving a scholarship lessens the struggle for students. It can mean not having to work extra hours or having money available for books.”
When Kirstie was at UF, it meant being able to focus on her academics and the experience of being an Oiler. “Her degree provided her the opportunity to obtain a position in her field that is not only self-supporting, but also satisfying and rewarding,” says Kelly. Majoring 
in early childhood in the College of Education, Kirstie was also a member
of the marching band, and the family enjoyed spending time with other band members and parents in the family tent at home football games.
“We’ve seen what the UF experience has done for us,” said Kelly, “and we’re all excited to see what it will be able to do for future students.”