The Youngstown State University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics is pleased to announce the creation of the Jack and Peggy Pierson Scholarship to enhance the YSU Athletics Scholarship Endowment Fund.
The Jack and Peggy Pierson Scholarship was established in the summer of 2015 by the Pierson family in honor of their father, Jack, a YSU graduate who spent his life educating students in the classroom and on the football field. Coach Pierson thrived on encouraging young people to excel in academics and athletics. He and his wife, Peggy, raised 10 children who strive to carry on their values of character, humility and integrity.
This scholarship will be awarded annually to recognize, celebrate and applaud the efforts of a YSU student-athlete who is making a difference. Student-athletes who receive the endowment must maintain a GPA of 2.8 or above and major in Education. Preference for the scholarship will go to Penguin student-athlete from Northeast Ohio or Western Pennsylvania.
"Our father, who had an infectious enthusiasm for education and athletics all his life, was truly proud to be an alumnus of Youngstown State," Pierson's family said. "He inspired all 10 of his children to complete a college degree, five of whom graduated from YSU and five of whom went on to receive doctorates in their chosen professions. He was so very grateful for the financial support he received at YSU that it is fitting his legacy continues in support of YSU student-athletes."
Paul McFadden, President of the YSU Foundation, said Jack had a tremendous impact on many lives through education, coaching and raising a productive family.
"Jack always thought of others before himself, and, this is a great way for his family to continue building on that belief," McFadden said. "The Pierson family understands the demands that are placed on a student-athlete and we are thankful for this generous gift."
For more information, or to endow an athletic scholarship at Youngstown State University, contact the YSU Foundation at (330) 941-3211 or Dan Kopp via email dkopp@ysufoundation.org
