By Sarah Aldag
University Relations and UNH Foundation

DURHAM, N.H. -- Rosamond Emerson Leland, who graduated from the University of New Hampshire in 1937, smiled as she entered the New England Center with her husband Hollis L. Leland, to greet her family and friends in celebration of her 84th birthday. Her smile deepened as she read the large sign announcing the new endowment in her name to support the university's performing arts.

The surprise endowment is the brainchild of Jean Leland Reid (Class of 1965), who coordinated the effort among her family members to honor her mother with a gift that would reflect her enduring love of the arts. The list of children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and friends who have pledged more than $30,000 to the endowment numbers 46 to date. At least 15 are UNH alumni, including Hollis L. Leland '35G, Dale Leland Eichorn '64, Jean Leland Reid '65, Diane Leland Newick '66, John Leland '80, Scott '89 and Kathleen Reid '89 and '99G, Bradley Newick '89, Christine Reid '92, Kelly Malasky '98 and '99G, Paul Eichorn '00, Sandy MacLean '37, Gerald Smith '48, Sylvia Beaupre '64, and Rosemary Daly '65.

Leland has been recognized with many honors for her long-time support of the university. An active alumna, she has served UNH in numerous capacities, including as vice president, president, and reunion chair for the class of 1937, board member of the Alumni Association, and chair of the Cultural Events Committee. She is a life member of the UNH President's Council and a 1989 recipient of the Alumni Meritorious Service Award.

The Rosamond Emerson Leland Endowment provides a permanent source of income for the performing arts at UNH. All endowment gifts to the university are invested, with a percentage of the income supporting the program of the donor's choice. The remaining income is reinvested, ensuring that the value of each donor's investment grows forever. Income from the Rosamond Emerson Leland Endowment fund supports public performances by professional artists through the university's Celebrity Series, which is dedicated to bringing the highest caliber artists to campus.

June 29, 2000

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