Forward Strides: Luke Levers ’51 and Pat Smith

For Luke Levers ’51 and his wife Pat Smith, making The University of Findlay a part their estate plans comes from a place of pride. “The University has made several strides forward,” says Luke. “We came back to campus for events and had the opportunity to see the farms, the Mazza Museum and how the campus has grown and changed.”

While a student at Findlay College, Levers intended to play football but was injured early in his career and instead played on the baseball team and wrestled in the old gym that is now a part of the All Hazards Training Center. After graduating with a degree in theology and Greek, he went on to become an educator and a minister. For 45 years, Levers taught math and science and coached football and wrestling. Along with his wife Pat, who taught mostly 3rd grade for 38 years, Levers understands the value of education and learning from dedicated faculty. “The professors at UF really took the time to talk to you and show interest,” Levers remembers.

When they planned their estate, Luke and Pat thought about the people and organizations that meant the most to both of them including family, relatives, Pat’s alma mater San Jose State University and The University of Findlay. “We come from a theological background, and we recognize that it is more blessed to give than to receive. By making this gift, students will benefit from what God blessed us with.” Through a gift to the For the Love of Findlay bequest campaign, their estate will fund the Benjamin L. Levers and Patricia M. Smith Scholarship Endowment Fund to support wrestlers and other athletes at UF. “Athletes often study another field and leave school for professions in teaching and coaching like us,” says Levers. “We want to allow new students to continue to fill the void left behind us.”