Introducing The Mark Brandt Faculty Scholar Fund

The School of Social Work is proud to announce the creation of a new endowed faculty scholar fund: an investment that strengthens our commitment to academic excellence, community impact, and the future of social work scholarship.

With the establishment of the Mark Brandt Faculty Scholar Fund, the School of Social Work has taken a transformative step forward in recognizing and supporting faculty excellence. This new endowment not only provides a permanent source of funding for research  and community engagement—it also honors the enduring legacy of a University of Illinois alumnus whose life was marked by quiet generosity and a deep desire to “do good in the world.”

“Named scholars do more than provide research support, they recognize the distinction of our faculty, and they signal that this is a place where excellence is seen and supported. Gifts like this help us recruit and retain outstanding faculty who are doing truly impactful work,” said Dean Ben Lough.

The Mark Brandt Faculty Scholar title will be awarded to faculty who are leading the way in innovative, community-driven research and advancing the School’s mission across Illinois and beyond. According to Nathan Goebel, the school’s Senior Director of Advancement, “This kind of support sends a strong message to current and prospective faculty: that the School is deeply invested in their success. It puts us on competitive footing with other top programs and offers both recognition and resources that can elevate a scholar’s entire career trajectory.”

A Legacy of Generosity

The fund was made possible through the estate of Mark Brandt (’86, Finance), a successful executive at General Electric, and a proud Illini. Mark was a generous and thoughtful person who believed in giving back. His longtime friend Mary Leyendecker (’86, Actuarial Science) helped carry out his final wish to “do good in the world” by directing part of his estate to the University of Illinois Foundation. “I know Mark would be proud to help support the people who will go on to help society,” said Mary.

Impact That Endures

Nathan Goebel emphasized the importance of private philanthropy in a rapidly changing funding landscape. “This endowment ensures that the School has stable, reliable support, even when public or federal funding may fluctuate. It gives our faculty the freedom to focus on their work instead of constantly seeking external grants.”

As the School prepares to name its inaugural Mark Brandt Faculty Scholar, the impact of this gift is already being felt. It stands as a testament to the lasting power of friendship, shared values, and the belief that education—and the dedicated individuals who shape it—can change the world.

If you would like to learn more about supporting faculty scholars at the School of Social Work, please contact Nathan Goebel.