Supporting The Future
What You Start, They Continue
One Gift, Endless Possibilities
Every act of giving sets something bigger in motion.
Through OFIC, a donor’s gift becomes a scholarship. That scholarship helps a student stay in school, complete an internship, and discover their purpose. That student graduates, begins a career, and reinvests in the next generation — as a mentor, community leader, or donor.
This is the foundation of The Independent Advantage: independent higher education creating empowered graduates who strengthen Ohio’s future.
OFIC’s mission is built on this model of shared investment — donors supporting students who go on to support others. It’s how education, community, and opportunity stay connected across generations.
Stories of Impact
These stories show what happens when one gift changes a student’s path. The effect is real — and it continues, benefiting Ohio communities for years to come.
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Meet Kaylee
Kaylee graduated from the University of Mount Union in 2022, studying Risk Management Insurance. An OFIC scholarship supported her through school and an internship with her donor at National State Insurance. She now works there and is pursuing graduate school, showing how one gift can launch a career while supporting further education.
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Meet Emma
Emma, a College of Wooster student, says, “This scholarship significantly lessens the burden of figuring out how to pay for my last two semesters. I can focus more on my schoolwork and enjoy my senior year of college.”
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Meet Jada
Jada, from Ohio Northern University, is studying in a male-dominated field and received the Charlotte R. Schmidlapp Fund scholarship. She reflects, “Beyond the financial assistance, your belief in my potential motivates me to push my boundaries and achieve excellence.”
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Meet Caroline
Caroline, a Wittenberg University student, says, “Words cannot express the difference this scholarship makes in my life. I remain committed to my education and look forward to the opportunity to pay this blessing forward.”
Our Strengths Yesterday, Today, & Tomorrow
For 75 years, OFIC has helped students succeed at Ohio’s independent colleges and universities. Donors trust us because we are careful stewards of every dollar, ensuring funds are used exactly as intended.
Every contribution strengthens both students and the communities they will serve.
Outcomes of Your Gift
Your support transforms lives and strengthens Ohio:
· Students gain confidence, reduce debt, and graduate ready to lead.
· Donors create lasting connections with campuses and students, setting an example of reinvestment in education and community.
· OFIC campuses remain strong, sustaining jobs and local economies.
· Gifts today lay the foundation for Ohio’s future teachers, entrepreneurs, scientists, and leaders.
· Every dollar contributes to Ohio’s independent higher education advantage and leaves a legacy of impact.
· Higher education is a pillar of a strong society.
· OFIC’s member campuses have graduated thousands of students who strengthen Ohio’s communities.
· Independent higher education is a smart investment in Ohio’s talent pipeline.
· Every scholarship reduces reliance on student debt and gives students space to thrive.
Through Gifts and Our Network
Your gift provides immediate relief and lasting opportunity.
Gifts are flexible. OFIC works with you to align your giving with your values.
· Scholarships and grants: Support students directly with tuition, books, and fees.
· Designated gifts: Support students in certain majors, regions, or backgrounds.
· Annual support: Join other donors in making sure every year’s class has the resources to succeed.
· Legacy and planned giving: Ensure students will benefit from your generosity for generations.
Increased Education is Critical to Ohio's Future
The shortage of college-educated Ohioans continues to be a major obstacle in our state’s ability to attract and retain good jobs and improve the economy. Today, fewer than three out of 10 Ohio students who start high school earn a college degree within 10 years and only 28% of all Ohioans 25 years of age or older hold a bachelor’s degree.
The need for more skilled workers, especially in Ohio, has become urgent. In fact, almost three of every 10 workers in educational services is near or at retirement age; 20% of the healthcare and social assistance workforce is retiring soon as well. Without your assistance, many students will never get the opportunity to achieve their academic goals of a college education.
