Maryann Kennedy ’78 Pay Forward Day
Maryann Kennedy, BS Pharm ’78, was a devoted alumna, generous donor and cherished friend of the College of Pharmacy. A firm believer in the power of paying it forward, Maryann, alongside her husband, Larry, dedicated her time, talent and treasure to advancing the college and strengthening The Ohio State University community.
Each year on August 25, Maryann’s birthday, we celebrate Maryann Kennedy ’78 Pay Forward Day, inspiring Pharmacy Buckeyes to honor her legacy by supporting others and giving back, just as Maryann did throughout her life.
Treasure
Maryann understood the financial challenges many students face. She often shared that a $400 annual scholarship from her local Kiwanis Club helped make her education possible and played a significant role in shaping the person she became. Just as important as the financial support was knowing that someone she had never met believed in her potential and invested in her future success. That experience inspired her lifelong commitment to helping others achieve their goals.
Time and Talent
Maryann generously shared her expertise and encouragement with countless students and alumni. She served as both a formal and informal mentor, contributed her leadership on several college boards and, together with Larry, enthusiastically attended and supported virtually every college event possible. Their dedication strengthened the Pharmacy Buckeye community and inspired others to get involved.
Paying Forward, Today
As we celebrate Maryann Kennedy ’78 Pay Forward Day on August 25, we invite the entire Pharmacy Buckeye community to carry forward her legacy. Whether through a small act of kindness, a gift to support future pharmacy students, mentoring a student, reconnecting with a fellow alum, or any of the many ways we can support one another, every act of kindness makes a difference.
Maryann believed that the impact we have on others extends far beyond ourselves. Today is an opportunity to reflect on that belief and take action in our own unique way. Join us and pay forward to the next generation of Pharmacy Buckeyes by supporting student scholarships and research.