Nearly 50 years ago, when Barbara Schwarz ‘76 was a student at Valparaiso University, she discovered that her family’s connection to the University ran much deeper than she realized. She explains, “About 50 years ago was the 50th anniversary of Valpo becoming a Lutheran institution. I was a student at Valpo then, so my grandmother contacted me to tell me she and my grandfather had donated funds towards that effort and are listed as founders of the University!” Barb continues, “Back then, they didn’t keep many records, and the University was looking for the contact information of the donors. My grandmother sent me their founder’s certificates and asked me to turn them in for her. It was an interesting twist in my Valpo experience.”
During her time on campus, Barb was involved in sorority activities with the Phi Omega sorority, SongFest, and various service projects, and she enjoyed everyday life in Scheele Hall. She says that some of her fondest campus memories come from the camaraderie of living in the dorms and being in the chapter rooms. She is still in contact with some of her sorority sisters today and cherishes those Valpo connections.
After earning her degree in mathematics in 1976, Barb enlisted in the Army, ultimately bringing her to the Washington, D.C., area. She explains, “I graduated into a recession, so I thought I would talk to an Army recruiter. They found a job for me that required my mathematics degree, so I enlisted. I served in the Army for 3 years.”
After her years of service were complete, Barb settled into a career working mainly on satellite ground systems for organizations such as NASA and the U.S. Air Force. She says that graduating from Valpo helped to shape the rest of her life – “College is the time of life when you’re maturing and growing into your adult self. My professors were open to discussions and taught us to build a life of service. They asked us important questions like, ‘How do you want to use your gifts now that you have this education? How are you going to use them in your life?’ Asking those questions really helped to shape me.”
Throughout her career, Barb remained a strong supporter of Valpo, honoring her and her family’s unique connections to the University. She says she gives back to Valpo because she believes in the power of giving. “Giving back is a blessing. I cherish my time at Valpo and my connection with the University. I want the next generation to have the same opportunities I had.” She says she hopes others consider the legacy they want to leave when deciding to give back. “Really think about what you want your impact to be on this world. What do you want your Valpo legacy to be?”
