Alums donate $1M for scholarships

Youngstown State University alumni Suellen and Michael Weir have donated $1 million to their alma mater to establish a half-tuition scholarship for full-time YSU undergraduate engineering or sciences majors.

“Our time at YSU was second-to-none, where we were offered a quality education that impacted our lives,” the Weirs said. “A good education is a basis for future opportunities, and we are thrilled to help YSU students on their path to obtaining a degree.”  

Suellen attended Cardinal Mooney High School and received her bachelor’s degree in Education from YSU in 1973. Michael and Suellen met at YSU, and Suellen was named homecoming queen in 1970. 

Michael, a graduate of North Lima High School, earned his bachelor’s degree from YSU in Mechanical Engineering in 1971, and a master’s in Business Administration in 1977. After graduation, Mike went on to work for Youngstown Sheet & Tube, Babcock and Wilcox, and Ingersoll-Rand. In 1982, he founded Total Equipment Company, a supplier of pumps and air compressors for Pennsylvania and West Virginia, including sales and service. 

“YSU and the YSU Foundation cannot express our gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Weir enough,” said YSU Foundation President Paul McFadden. “Their generosity will assist future generations of students by lessening their financial concerns, all the while receiving the best education possible.” 

Founded in 1966, the YSU Foundation is the nonprofit fundraising arm of YSU. In the 2020-2021 academic year, the Foundation is providing a record $9.9 million in scholarship and program support for YSU students.