Former OSU Professor Leaves $300K in Will Former Oklahoma State University professor Irma Manning dedicated her career to improving the lives of others, and will continue to do so even after her death.  In May 2006, the OSU Foundation received $300,000 from Manning’s estate to support educational opportunities in the College of Human Environmental Sciences (HES). Through lifetime and estate gifts, Manning generously contributed nearly $500,000 to ensure her mission would continue at OSU. “Irma has been a long-time friend of the College and her support of Cooperative Extension programs throughout the state began early,” said Dr. Patricia Knaub, Dean of the College of Human Environmental Sciences. “

Steve Norman, Manning’s financial advisor, presents Keri Williams, OSU Foundation Director of Gift Planning, with a check from Manning’s estate in Stillwater.  Funds from Manning’s estate will support extension services in OSU’s College of Human Environmental Sciences.

Her career wasdedicated to improving the quality of life for all Oklahomans . We are grateful for this gift which will provide support for those who carry on her legacy. Irma’s gift will continue to make a difference in the lives of families across the state.”

A native of Hansen, Idaho, Manning’s family moved to Jet, Okla. when she was a child. She received a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern State College in Alva, Okla. before enrolling at Oklahoma State University.  Manning earned a master’s degree from HES in 1955.

Spending over half her life in Stillwater, Manning became a state leader and advocate for disadvantaged women. She developed programs to help women with low income or education levels create a better lifestyle for themselves and their families. Manning worked with the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension for 34 years and served as an HES associate professor.

Even after retirement, Manning remained active in university life and events. She loyally contributed funds to support various OSU and HES educational opportunities for over 40 years. Manning passed away in December 2005 at the age of 84.

“As Ms. Manning’s financial advisor, I am happy to see many of her wishes fulfilled,” Steve Norman said.  “She was a very benevolent person, willing to help out numerous causes, including OSU.” 

The Irma Manning Endowment Fund supports HES programs, specifically those that benefit low income youth and families in Oklahoma. The endowment provides scholarships for Cooperative Extension educators who bring research from OSU to the citizens of Oklahoma.

The Oklahoma State University Foundation serves as the private fundraising organization for OSU, as designated by the OSU Regents.  Its mission is to unite donor and university passions and priorities to achieve excellence.

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