I grew up in a small Illinois town, and my interest in Iowa started early in my life. My dad was a physician and attended numerous continuing education sessions at the University of Iowa. He passed along a fondness and appreciation for Iowa to my brother, David Faulk (69BA, 73MD), my sister, Arlene Faulk (70BA), and me.
My Iowa experience was transformative. I gained so much confidence and believed that I could do anything in my life. Over the next 45 years, I was fortunate to raise a family and travel the world as I worked for KPMG, Caterpillar, the University of Iowa, and the University of Michigan.
I shared my love for Iowa with my two children and eight grandchildren by taking them to Hawkeye sporting events and Hancher performances. My son and four grandchildren went to Iowa. One of my grandchildren, Michael Vratsinas, had an amazing experience with UI REACH (Realizing Educational and Career Hopes)—a comprehensive, four-year certificate program in the UI College of Education for students ages 18 to 25 years old with intellectual, cognitive, and learning disabilities.
Michael is on the autism spectrum, and during his time at Iowa, he gained so much confidence as he took part in the complete college experience. He lived in Mayflower and Burge, took classes, ate in the dining halls, and went to many athletic events. Now he is succeeding in life, which is why I have created a scholarship for other UI REACH students.
I wanted to help students expand their horizons, develop interests, and learn to lead through employment or volunteerism. It’s been wonderful to hear from the four students who have received the scholarship so far—and to know that it’s helping Hawkeyes succeed.
Carol Faulk Senneff (67BS)
Ann Arbor, Michigan
