Trustee finds joy in establishing scholarship

JOY—it is a word simply defined as "a source or cause of delight," yet to Floretta Ward the word JOY epitomizes her philosophy of living. Jesus first—Others second—Yourself last.

On October 11, 1999, Floretta lost her husband, James S. Ward. James served as CEO of Continental Bridge Company and spent a lifetime designing roadways to ease travelers' passage. In James' absence, Floretta's path lay unknown.

"Once James passed away, I made a decision to make a difference in the lives of others," said Floretta. "I asked God what he would have me do."

Rev. Mark Stevens, a 1974 alumnus, served as Floretta's pastor at Sunset Hills Baptist Church in Omaha, Neb. In August 2001, President Mark Benedetto shared with Stevens' parishioners the mission of the University of Sioux Falls and described his vision to expand the impact of this distinctively Christian institution.

Rev. Palmer Swenson, a former University employee, long-time Baptist minister, and good friend of Floretta's, knew she was steadfast in her goal to influence others. They visited campus in November 2001.

"Palmer and I attended chapel. I was impressed with the number of students," said Floretta. "They were standing, and we couldn't walk down the aisle. It was electrifying."

That same day Floretta established the James S. and Floretta M. Ward Endowed Scholarship.

Lindy Gunvordahl, a sophomore from Burke, S.D., receives the Ward Scholarship. Gunvordahl chose USF because of its small-town atmosphere.

"I appreciate that my professors care about me as an individual," said Gunvordahl. "For example, I went to see my advisor (Dr. John Hiigel) to discuss my class schedule, and he took two hours out of his day to visit with me about my classes and future."

Gunvordahl came to a crossroads following her freshman year. Though she loved USF, Gunvordahl planned to transfer to a less expensive state school.

"When I received the letter stating that I had received Floretta's scholarship, I was overjoyed," said Gunvordahl. "It was the deciding factor that allowed me to remain at USF to pursue my dream of becoming a Christian counselor."

JOY—Floretta's philosophy on life—has been a source of delight for young scholars, and it has been the cause of delight in Floretta's life.

"When you ask—listen—God will answer you," said Floretta. "USF is where God led me, and I have fallen in love with the University and the students."