As the 2024 Undergraduate Research Showcase unfolded at Boise State University, something special was brewing behind the scenes—an initiative to honor Donna Llewellyn, a passionate advocate for undergraduate research who has spent the last decade transforming opportunities for students at Boise State.
Little did she know, the staff of the Institute for Inclusive and Transformative Scholarship (IFITS), where she currently serves as Executive Director, had a surprise in store: the launch of the Donna Llewellyn Fund for Undergraduate Research, an endowed fund designed to continue her legacy by supporting student research for years to come.
The fund, unveiled at the Showcase by Michal Temkin Martinez on behalf of the iFITS staff, was more than a gesture of appreciation. It was a testament to Llewellyn’s tireless efforts over the years, from securing grants to expanding research opportunities for students of all backgrounds. With a starting pledge of nearly $14,000 from her colleagues, family, and friends, the fund aims to reach $50,000 by her retirement in December 2024. This will ensure that her work continues, fostering research opportunities for future generations of students.
What makes this initiative truly special is that it was kept a secret from Llewellyn, meticulously planned by the IFITS staff, including inviting her supportive family to be present once they unveiled the fund.
As they reflected on her final Undergraduate Research Showcase, the idea to honor her in a way that would reflect her passion for student success quickly took shape. From quietly securing initial donations to collaborating with university departments, the effort to launch the fund was as thoughtful as Llewellyn’s own approach to supporting students.
The behind-the-scenes work surprised and deeply touched Llewellyn. She said:
I had no idea any of this was going on until Michal told me ‘she was going rogue’ with the run-of-show at the event. I was and still am blown away by this gift of being able to continue to have an impact here after I have retired. I can’t find the words to express my appreciation to Michal, the IFITS staff and everyone who worked to make this happen (and will continue working on it). I am filled with gratitude.
Donna Llewellyn
As Llewellyn’s tenure at Boise State comes to a close, her influence will continue to be felt in the projects and successes of students who benefit from this fund—just one more way her legacy of inclusivity and excellence in research will endure. For those inspired by Llewellyn’s dedication and who wish to contribute to the fund, please visit the following link:
Donate to the Donna Llewellyn Fund for Undergraduate Research