Milwaukee philanthropists Ted and Mary Kellner announced Thursday they are giving $2.5 million to Cardinal Stritch University.
The university said the gift will support its “students, academic programs and activities” in a news release.
“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 Rinehart. “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.”
Ted, founder of Milwaukee-based Fiduciary Management Inc. and current chairman and chief executive officer of T&M Partners and the Kelben Foundation, and Mary have made several notable donations to Wisconsin higher education institutions in recent years, including a $25 million gift to the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2017 and a $5 million gift to UW-Milwaukee in 2016.
The Kellners have multiple ties to Cardinal Stritch. Mary received a doctor of education in leadership for the advancement of learning and service from the university in 2007. She has served on its board of trustees since 2009 and is a member of the College of Education and Leadership Advisory Council. Mary’s daughter, Kristin Schultz, also received a Ph.D. from the university.
“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.”
