Eileen Barnett: Staff Member Funds Scholarship for Agriculture Students

Eileen and Doug Barnett

Eileen and Doug Barnett

It is no surprise that Eileen Barnett is funding a scholarship through her will to benefit the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “I feel fortunate for my 30 years at the university of Maryland, says Eileen. “It was a wonderful experience in every way, not only for my career but also the excitement of seeing the students grow and learn.”

The gift provides additional funds for the Eileen Barnett Endowed Scholarship, which she and her husband Doug established in 2008 to benefit students attending the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Growing up on a farm in Eastern Kentucky, Eileen’s background has always been in agriculture. “Money was an issue growing up on the farm, and it was hard to watch my two nieces struggle to go to college—just as I did. I asked myself what I can do to help give rural kids the opportunity to further their career and education.”

Eileen was hired by the university in 1976 and worked in several departments; she says the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources has always held a special place in her heart because its work “impacts every aspect of our lives—food, family, the environment, economics.” As a staff member, Eileen took many university courses, and she urges other staff to support the university.

“It’s important that everyone knows they can assist—not just alumni, faculty, or administrators, but staff too,” she says. “Think about how you were touched by the university and what you can do to better the lives of the next generation of students.”

If you are interested in making a planned gift, contact our staff at giftplanning@umd.edu. There are many ways to make a planned gift. Let professionals in the field help determine what will work best for you.