Couple Helps Others Achieve Educational Goals

Ronald and Eloise Mitchell began giving to their alma mater over 30 years ago. Their commitment to supporting Cumberlands and recommending many students continued throughout their lifetimes.

Both born and raised in coal camps in nearby Jellico, TN. They met in high school. Upon discovering Eloise would be attending Cumberlands, Ronald began cleaning coal cars to save money to follow her. In 1949, his parents brought him to Cumberlands where he handed over his savings to enroll for one semester—it was “all he could afford.”

Soon after, a note on his door directed he report to the President’s Office. When he nervously appeared, Dr. James Boswell asked if he would sweep the library each night—he agreed. A few weeks later, another note requesting help with fires and fire pits in the kitchen for breakfast—again he agreed. Mitchell never paid another dime for his education after those opportunities were provided. He loved Cumberlands for the start he got here.

In a letter, Mitchell stated: “Back in 1948-1950, you made it possible for two young people from Jellico High School to further our education. Eloise and I want to thank you with this check, which the Lord blessed us with. Please use this gift to help other people further their educational goal…As the Lord provides us, we will share his resources with you.”

Eloise continued classes; however, Ron left early to join the Navy and fight in the Korean War. After serving, the couple married, and both finished their degrees. Blessed with two daughters, they loved their careers and ultimately relocated to Florida where they enjoyed their family and serving at Venice First Baptist Church for over 50 years. Both retired from the Sarasota School System.

Ron earlier shared that Cumberlands was beneficiary to a life insurance policy. SUCH A LEGACY! Generous and caring, the Mitchells touched countless lives throughout their career, and now their legacy will carry on in perpetuity.

Want to create a legacy like Ron and Eloise have? Your generous gift will directly impact Cumberlands students for generations to come. Please contact William L. Stohlmann at 606-539-3571 or plannedgifts@ucumberlands.edu to learn more.