Betsy Mills is a second generation Cardinal, whose presence on campus has touched thousands upon thousands of lives. All of this was made possible through a private gift to Ball State.

In 2004, Mills was awarded an Emens Scholarship, which covers in-state tuition.

“It was a huge honor to begin with,” she said. “It really gave me the confidence I needed. Ball State believed in me.”

Mills, of Middletown, Indiana, comes from a Ball State family. Her parents attended Ball State, and her two younger sisters will graduate from Ball State in 2010. Even her dog has the Ball State spirit. She’s named Lucy, after Lucina Hall.

Mills had been considering colleges beyond her backyard; however, the Emens Scholarship changed her mind and opened up endless opportunities for her.

“This campus has great personality,” Mills said. “The professors are so passionate about teaching students and facilitating new and intriguing ways to learn. We have one of the best student affairs programs in the country. Students who come here want to come here because of how it can change their lives.”

Mills used her scholarship to become a united voice for students.

As president of the Student Government Association, Mills has worked on countless projects: surveying students about a smoke-free campus, extending the busing route, updating the student center, offering more healthy choices in dining, making the campus more environmentally friendly, and the working with the Multicultural Center.

Mills graduated with a bachelor’s degree in women’s studies in May 2008 and has her sites set on graduate school and law school. She can now see how private gifts can spread through just one person and touch so many lives and will give to Ball State after graduation.

“I wouldn’t be who I am and who I will be without Ball State,” she said.

Private gifts lead the way as Ball State gains stature with nationally acclaimed programs and faculty, attracts academically talented students like Mills, offers immersive learning opportunities, and enhances the campus.

Learn how your gift can make a difference.