UT Alum Gives Back in Support of Mathematics

When Roice Nelson (BS, '97) was a student at The University of Texas at Austin, he received a scholarship that covered his books, tuition and other expenses. The funds allowed him to focus on receiving a world-class education with minimal financial burden. Roice and his wife, Sarah, recently decided to honor the gift he was given with one of their own. 

While making provisions for their estate, the couple chose to designate part of their wealth to an area that serves as a foundational tool and source of inspiration for them – mathematics. Remembering his time on the Forty Acres and how he was helped, Roice reached out to the university to discuss supporting the future of mathematics through planned giving. One conversation led to another and in no time the Roice and Sarah Nemec-Nelson Endowment for Mathematics Outreach was established. 

"UT made it easy for us," said Sarah.

"And," Roice interjected, "they made it fun!"

The duo's passion, coupled with information provided by UT Austin giving experts, turned their inquiry into impact. The Nelson's contribution was matched by Roice's employer, GE Aviation. They also committed to a planned gift that will greatly supplement the endowment.

The Roice and Sarah Nemec-Nelson Endowment for Mathematics Outreach is designed to help heighten understanding and appreciation of the role of mathematics in our daily lives. The couple hopes their gift will also help bridge the gap between the mathematics community and members of the public, while deepening awareness about how math plays into natural phenomena, technology, economic forces and our world.

Roice's advice to others who might be considering a gift to the College is simple, "Go hang out with them and learn more."

To learn more about giving opportunites, please contact the College of Natural Sciences Office of Development at 512-471-3299 or cnsgiving@austin.utexas.edu.