Mrs. Violet (Bica ’44) Ross is one of Mount Union’s most loyal and generous benefactors. Her most recent gift to the University will name The Violet Bica Ross Center for Student Success and The Violet Bica Ross Football Coaching Wing.

The Violet Bica Ross Center for Student Success, to be located in the Kolenbrander-Harter Information Center, will empower students in the strategic pursuit of their goals as they relate to personal transition, academic progress and success, and career planning. With Ross’ career in teaching and school psychology, she understands the importance of a program that provides students the resources needed to successfully navigate their entire college experience.

“I have a long-term commitment to education and take great interest in our students,” Ross said. “I am happy to support an area on campus that inspires them to be their best.” This center will focus on advocacy, problem solving, retention, and will help equip students for fulfilling lives, meaningful work, and responsible citizenship. 

Keeping Mount Union’s football program close to her heart, Ross also named The Violet Bica Ross Football Coaching Wing, which will be located in the newly constructed Dom and Karen Capers Football Coaching Center. The 5,600-square foot building will feature a team meeting room, coaches’ offices and conference rooms. 

“I’m so proud of what our football team has accomplished under the leadership of Larry and Vince Kehres,” said Ross. “I am happy to support an area for the coaches to show my gratitude for their hard work and dedication to our young men.” 

“Through Mrs. Ross’ unprecedented and generous investment in Mount Union, we are able to advance the University’s commitment to educational excellence,” said Gregory King, vice president for university advancement. “It shows others the power of philanthropy and the incredible impact one person can have on a University.”

Over the years, Ross has supported the University’s top priorities on campus including the Bica-Ross Hall, Bracy Hall, Dom and Karen Capers Football Coaching Center, Dewald Chapel, Hartshorn and Union Avenue townhouses, Hoover-Price Campus Center, Kolenbrander-Harter Information Center, Mount Union Stadium, Sigma Nu house, The Violet Bica Ross and L. Clayton Ross Scholarship, the Virginia Bica Endowed Scholarship, the engineering program, The Rachel Boyce Lang International Choir Tour and The Mount Union Fund.

Mount Union is grateful to Ross for her remarkable gifts to the University, commitment to students, as well as her campus leadership. Currently, she serves as the Honorary Chair of Mount Union’s Inspiring Minds, Transforming Lives campaign. In conjunction with the University’s strategic plan, this $50 million-dollar comprehensive campaign will support four main funding priorities: scholarship opportunities, facility enhancements, innovation in curriculum and experiential learning, and The Mount Union Fund.

Learn more about the campaign priorities.