Stritch announces $2.5 million gift to support students, academic programs and activities

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Cardinal Stritch University President Kathleen A. Rinehart, J.D. (center) is pictured with Mr. Ted (left) and Dr. Mary Kellner (right).

Ted and Mary Kellner, respected leaders in the greater Milwaukee and Wisconsin business and philanthropic communities, announced a $2.5 million gift that will support Cardinal Stritch University, its students, academic programs, and activities.

Mary Kellner earned an Ed.D. in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service from Stritch in 2007. She has served on the University’s Board of Trustees since 2009 and is a member of the College of Education and Leadership Advisory Council. Mary and her daughter, Dr. Kristin Schultz, ’13, who earned a Ph.D. in Leadership with a focus on Clinical Depression and Meaning Making, are the first mother-daughter doctoral degree recipients in Stritch history.

Ted Kellner is Chairman and CEO of T&M Partners, a holding company for personal investments. Mary and Ted’s generosity over the years has enhanced opportunities for those pursuing their educational dreams — from grade school through graduate and professional programs.

“I have seen firsthand the transformational work that happens every day at Stritch, through my own doctoral education and that of my daughter, Kristin; work with the Literacy Center; and my service on the Board of Trustees,” said Dr. Mary Kellner.

“Stritch has long played a leadership role in the greater Milwaukee community in the preparation of leaders across many fields and professions, including Mary and Kristin,” said Ted Kellner. “As we address the needs of the 21st century employers, Stritch will be an integral community partner in the preparation of those who will make an impact in the communities where they live, work and lead.”

“On behalf of the entire Stritch community, I want to express our profound appreciation to Ted and Mary for their belief in Stritch, our students and the leadership role Stritch can and must play in higher education,” said Stritch President Kathleen A. Rinehart, J.D. “The transformational programs we offer are designed to prepare the whole person to succeed in a diverse and ever-changing world. The Kellner gift will enable the University to continue to prepare 21st century leaders who, in turn, will enhance the communities in which they live and work.”