In the 1970s, Dr. Larry Giesmann began his tenure at Northern Kentucky University, bringing a passion for biology and an unwavering commitment to his students. This dedication has now culminated in the establishment of the Dr. Larry A. Giesmann Endowed Professorship in Biology, a significant contribution that will shape the future of NKU’s College of Arts and Sciences.
The Dr. Larry A. Giesmann Endowed Professorship in Biology is a testament to Dr. Giesmann’s enduring influence and dedication to academic excellence. This endowed professorship, which is a part of the Bucks for Brains Endowment Match Program through the Commonwealth of Kentucky, will provide NKU with the resources to attract and retain distinguished faculty members for years to come. These professors will play a pivotal role in mentoring students, advancing research and enhancing the academic environment at NKU.
Dr. Laura Trice, wife and former student of Dr. Giesmann and successful physician, speaks to the profound impact he had on her career.
“As a single mother entering NKU’s pre-med program in 1989, I simply would not have been accepted to UC Medical School without Larry’s support and would not have gone on to have the successful career I now find myself in without him at my side,” Dr. Trice reflects. “This endowed professorship is a unique opportunity to invest in the future academic excellence of the university, and seeing Larry honored in this way reminds me of all the former students who would stop us in order to tell him how much their NKU education meant to their future.”
The Bucks for Brains Endowment Match Program, which matches private donations with state funds, amplifies the impact of the Dr. Larry A. Giesmann Endowed Professorship in Biology. This initiative ensures NKU remains competitive by providing the necessary funding for groundbreaking research and high-quality education. The endowed professorship will not only enhance NKU’s academic reputation but also provide students with opportunities to work alongside leading experts in the field of biology.
Dr. Robert Lorenz, a former student of Dr. Giesmann and a contributing donor to this endowed professorship, highlights the transformative influence Dr. Giesmann had on his life.
“One day after class, Dr. Giesmann told me that I was going to take the MCAT. At that point, he became the face of the university for me. But I also soon learned that at NKU, that was the norm: Teachers gave both direction and positivity above and beyond the call of duty,” Dr. Lorenz recalls. “I owe Dr. Giesmann tremendous gratitude.”
In addition to the endowed professorship, Dr. Giesmann and Dr. Trice have made significant contributions to NKU through various scholarships. In 2016, they established the now-titled Larry Giesmann Biology Scholarship to support students majoring in biological sciences. Their commitment to education also extends to athletics. In 2015, they established the Larry Giesmann and Laura Trice Endowed Scholarship for a student-athlete on the intercollegiate men’s cross country team.
However, it is the Dr. Larry A. Giesmann Endowed Professorship in Biology that stands as a cornerstone of their legacy. This endowed professorship will ensure that future generations of NKU students have access to exceptional educators who can provide the mentorship and guidance necessary for academic and professional success. By supporting the recruitment and retention of top-tier faculty, the professorship will foster an environment of excellence, innovation and discovery.
Through their generosity, Dr. Trice and Dr. Giesmann are not only honoring the relationships and opportunities that shaped their lives but also investing in the future of NKU and its students. The Dr. Larry A. Giesmann Endowed Professorship in Biology represents a significant step forward in advancing the university’s mission and ensuring that NKU remains a leader in biological sciences education.
Manager of Alumni and Donor Communications
