Liz Kissell’s, ’75, M.S. ’82, family has been in Colorado ever since they settled here to homestead in the 1870s.   

When she graduated from high school in the early 1970s, the affordability of UNC and Greeley’s size made it an appealing option to pursue her undergraduate education. Once on campus, Kissell was quickly reassured that she had chosen the right option for herself.   

“I had a great experience. Coming from Erie, at that time it was a town of 800 to 1,000 people, so for me to go to Greeley was a big deal,” said Kissell.   

After graduating with her bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Kissell moved to Los Angeles, California. While there, she worked at the University of California, Los Angeles on the medical neurology floor for two and a half years before moving back to Greeley with her roommate. Kissell found work at the Weld County Health Department where she discovered a new passion within nursing.   

“I had a student with me when I worked at the Health Department. I really enjoyed working with a student, teaching, helping her understand things,” said Kissell.  

At the time, UNC offered a master’s of Nursing Education degree, which seemed to be a perfect fit.  

Upon graduating with her master’s degree, Kissell learned that the School of Nursing was in need of faculty. She was hired and began teaching a couple lectures and a few clinical groups. During her time as a faculty member, Kissell was struck by the fact that she was surrounded by peers who she both taught alongside and learned from.  

Now, because of her overwhelmingly positive experiences, Kissell is a loyal donor to the Nursing Fund. Giving back to her community is important to Kissell. Knowing what it’s like to be a student with two children, she knows the financial obligation that attending university puts on a person, which is why she chooses to donate every month. 

“If my little amount every month can help scholarships or the programs, [that] is what really counts,” said Kissell.  

Not only does she make a difference by supporting the Nursing program through her generous gifts, but she also volunteers her time to bolster UNC’s enrollment efforts through the Bear to Bear program where volunteers aid admissions outreach by writing postcards to prospective students. 

“It was fun to give prospective students a little encouragement from somebody who graduated [from UNC] and was successful,” said Kissell. 

Loyal donors who give monthly gifts like Kissell uplift and propel students into their careers. Student success is supported by alumni and donors who are committed to helping the next generation of Bears flourish, no matter how much or how often they choose to get involved.