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SF State Nursing School receives largest individual gift in its history

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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Press Release published by the Office of Public Affairs & Publications

 


$296,000 gift from private estate is earmarked for scholarships to oncology and cardiovascular nursing students

SAN FRANCISCO, November 27, 2006 -- The San Francisco State University School of Nursing has received the largest gift from an individual in the school's 50-year history. The $296,000 gift, made by the estate of William "Ray" Tobias Jr. and his wife, Jacquelyn Hawkins Tobias, will be used to create an endowed scholarship fund for both undergraduate and graduate nursing students who have an interest in oncology or cardiovascular nursing.

Mr. Tobias, who died in October 2005, had cardiovascular problems in his later years before succumbing to cancer. His wife died of complications from cancer in October 2003.

The couple, who lived in San Bruno and had no previous connection to San Francisco State, were apparently aware of the urgent need for nurses in the United States and the importance of providing direct support to outstanding nursing students.

"Mr. and Mrs. Tobias' generosity and vision will enable us to offer financial support to our students for generations to come," said Andrea Boyle, associate professor and interim director of the School of Nursing. "We have many talented students in our nursing program who are committed to providing excellent care in oncology and cardiovascular nursing, two concentrations where there continues to be a tremendous need." Boyle added that cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 cause of death in the U.S., and cancer is the second leading cause.

Mr. Tobias began his career in the airline industry in the commissary and in-flight catering field and worked for several carriers, including Pan American, for 25 years. In 1975 he purchased a San Francisco hotel reservations firm, which he operated until his retirement in 2000. Mrs. Tobias retired as an insurance executive after 44 years of employment at a financial services firm.

Founded in 1955, the SF State School of Nursing offers bachelor of science and master of science degrees. More than 400 students are enrolled in the school's highly competitive programs, which prepare students for licensure to practice nursing in a variety of settings. SF State is the only master's-level public university serving the counties of San Francisco, San Mateo and Marin. The University enrolls about 29,000 students each year and graduates about 7,000 annually.

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Last modified November 27, 2006, by the Office of Public Affairs & Publications