Joan Sprague

By Kristin Johnson

Joan Sprague had made something of herself. Born during the Great Depression, the second child of five, she worked to save enough money to pay for college on her own. She graduated with a bachelor's degree in physical education and English in 1958, followed by a master's degree in physical education and health. She had finished a successful career as a teacher and coach, having used her skills across the United States and even overseas, gathering accolades on both the academic and athletic fronts. She had become a world traveler, experiencing cultures and adventures in 60 countries and six continents. She even climbed Mt. Fuji and Machu Picchu, and at age 80, zip-lined across a canyon in Mexico. Her life was full.

But as Joan was going over her financial statements, she had a feeling that she should share some of the benefits of her success with others. Joan talked to a friend and old classmate, who had given a financial gift to the Minnesota State University Moorhead Foundation. That friend explained the importance of giving back, and what an impact it could make on students, as well as her own life. After that conversation and some deep thought, Sprague decided to begin the Joan Sprague Endowed Scholarship at MSUM. This is the first endowed scholarship with a preference to be awarded to a female student pursuing a teaching career in physical education. "I needed to give to a place that would go on forever," she said of starting her scholarship. "I now have the advantage of having funds to help, and I know there are many students who can't afford to go to college. I feel really good about doing it."

To Sprague, MSUM will always have a special place in her heart. During her time as a student, she met friends and built relationships that changed her life. Her classes and student teaching experiences were transformational in making her the successful educator she became. Though she now resides in California, Sprague recently had the opportunity to visit MSUM. "It felt like such a familiar, friendly place," she said. "It felt like home. When I come back to campus, I just feel like part of a family."