Philanthropy Strengthens Friendship Honoring Kathleen Watson

The late Kathleen Watson with her husband, Herman, who established an endowed scholarship fund in her memory.

In memory of the late Kathleen Watson, her husband of more than 40 years, Dr. Herman Watson '07, established an endowed scholarship fund in the FIU College of Architecture + The Arts through a stock gift worth more than $51,000. The Kathleen Watson Memorial Scholarship Fund supports scholarships for students majoring in communication arts, a department in which Kathleen created and contributed to many courses within the curriculum.

"I hope the scholarship will continue, in some small way, the memory of my wife's passion for teaching and love of being with the students," says Herman, who earned his Ph.D. from FIU's College of Engineering and Computing in 2007 and currently lectures at the college.

Reflecting more on his wife, Herman says, "She always, always would have a wonderful, warm smile, no matter what. I have looked at all our photos from the years and could not find one where she was not smiling. She was a very happy person and everyone who knew her was always happy to be with her."

"It's our hope that FIU students who were not fortunate enough to have experienced Kathleen's amazing teaching skills; positive attitude; love for her family, friends and students; sense of fairness; and appreciation for all that life has to offer, will, through this scholarship, have not just an opportunity to learn about Kathleen, but more importantly, continue her legacy by making the world a better place by exhibiting her qualities," Brian says.

"Kathleen and Herman Watson are selfless individuals whose kindness and compassion for others have served as an inspiration for us," Brian says.

Brian and Camila Schriner have been close friends of the Watsons for more than 15 years.

Memories Live On

Some of the Schriners' fondest memories of Kathleen include numerous conversations filled with laughter, attending morning Mass, boating and spending long weekends in the Keys, and celebrating birthdays and holidays with the Watsons because they were considered "family." It was only fitting, Brian says, that he and his wife would support their dear friends by investing in the scholarship fund.

Kathleen passed away in December 2012 after a 10-year battle with breast cancer.

"All through that time, she would summon the courage and determination to physically get to class and continue to teach," Herman says. "This all took place when she would be receiving chemotherapy, radiation therapy or some other debilitating treatment. Sometimes she would have to pause for rest stops physically moving from class to class. Whenever she was in front of the class, the magic would begin and she always would have the energy to continue."

FIU acknowledges Herman, Brian and Camila for their generous gifts made to honor and create a lasting legacy of Kathleen's wonderful spirit and devotion to her friends, family, her profession and the students of FIU.

Create Your Legacy

Join Brian and Camila Schriner in investing in the future of FIU by making a planned gift to the University. Contact us to get started.