A Legacy That Will Live on Forever

Reality was shaken.

Upon hearing the news of Denise Smith's passing, the Truman community reeled in shock. The loss of our great friend and advocate will be felt for many years to come.

As the face of Truman State University Alumni Relations, and the driving force behind the alumni activities, Denise had a way of establishing an instant friendship with everyone she encountered.

With her easy laugh, she spread joy throughout the entire alumni network. Her warmth permeated every personal interaction, phone call, email and handwritten note. In all things, she reminded members of the Truman community that we are all "Bulldogs Forever" and together, we are family.

Her memory will continue to shine, not only in our hearts, but also through all of her contributions to the University. As in life, Denise continues to play a vital role in the lives of alumni through the programs she helped found and grow. Her legacy lives on in current and future Bulldogs as well.

In honor of her family and their long history with Truman, Denise created a scholarship to benefit students from northern Missouri. In order to ensure the scholarship lived on even after her passing, she left a portion of her life insurance policy to enhance the fund. In doing so, she guaranteed the scholarship will always be there to help students.

Denise worked tirelessly to cultivate and grow the Bulldog spirit in all of us. She worked behind the scenes, never looking for recognition. However, we know for sure she would be pleased that her life helped students pursue their futures.

A Lasting Impact

Denise's support for future Bulldogs will live on forever thanks to her gift. Contact Cody Weichelt at 660-785-4124 or cweichelt@truman.edu to share a memory of Denise, or to learn more about ways you can make a lasting difference Truman State University.