Lydia
and Elvon Skeen's dedication to teaching and providing educational
opportunities to students was evident in their actions throughout
their lives. Always loyal to Kansas State University, and
having no children of their own, the Skeens felt a gift to
K-State would allow a large number of students to continue
to benefit from their life's work.
Working with KSU Foundation staff, the Skeens
established the single largest commitment ever provided to
K-State's College of Education. The Elvon G. and Lydia E.
Skeen Education Fund, which will accrue over $1 million in
endowed funds, will be used to provide scholarships for outstanding
College of Education students and to support faculty-recognition
awards.
The real estate used to establish the Skeens'
generous gift to K-State is situated on the McKenzie River
near Eugene, Oregon, and provided a beautiful retirement home
for Lydia and Elvon for several years. In order to create
the fund, the land was deeded to the KSU Foundation by Lydia,
who has lived in Eugene since Elvon's death in 1995.
"Lydia and Elvon Skeen were dedicated teachers
and we are extremely grateful that they will continue forever
their devotion to education by establishing this endowment."
Mike Holen, dean, College of Education, said. "Their
commitment to provide resources to assist future students
and faculty is unprecedented for our college."
The Skeens both earned their bachelor's degrees
from K-State in 1931. After graduation, Elvon coached several
sports and taught math and science while Lydia taught history
and English. Both eventually returned to K-State to pursue
advanced degrees. Elvon earned his master's in physical education
in 1937 and Lydia received her master's in history in 1938.
The couple remained in Kansas and taught in Haven, Yates Center,
and Kanopolis, before retiring and moving to Alaska in 1947.
After retiring to Alaska, the Skeens decided to resume their
careers. Elvon served as superintendent of several schools
in Alaska and Lydia taught social studies.
With the completion of successful careers in
education, the Skeens decided to try retirement once more.
In 1954, they purchased a 20-room hunting and fishing lodge
located along the bank of the McKenzie River. The lodge formerly
hosted dignitaries such as Presidents Herbert Hoover and Calvin
Coolidge. Shortly after the property was purchased, the lodge
burned. The Skeens then built a beautiful home overlooking
the McKenzie River on the spot where the lodge had been located.
They only had to step out their back door to enjoy the spectacular
vista provided by the tranquil McKenzie River and the lush
valley surrounding the property. It was while they were living
on the property that the Skeens were called out of retirement
once more and headed back to Alaska. Elvon took the position
of Superintendent of Schools in Bethel, Alaska, and Lydia
returned to teaching.
Retiring to the McKenzie River property for
the final time in 1959, the Skeens traveled extensively as
well as enjoyed gardening, fishing and walks on the McKenzie
River Foot Bridge, located behind their home.
The Skeens led life to its fullest in their
careers and in retirement. Their love for teaching touched
the lives of many students throughout their long and varied
careers. Not only was this love for teaching demonstrated
in the classrooms in which they taught, but, now with their
gift, generations of new K-State students' educational endeavors
will continue to be touched by Lydia and Elvon Skeen's love
for education. With the establishment of the Skeen Education
Fund, their commitment to education and students, much like
the McKenzie River, will continue to flow.
Ovations, Winter 1999
KSU Foundation
