Polly Roesch: Developing the Talents of the Future
"If I Can Help..."
Pauline “Polly” Roesch a former secretary, singer, gardener and civic leader in Springfield firmly believes that those more privileged than others are blessed if they give back to their communities. Springfield’s younger citizens are usually the beneficiaries of the 97-year-old Roesch’s largesse.
“I’ve always felt that if I can help develop the talents of the future—those young people who will be our leaders of tomorrow—I will have really accomplished something here on earth,” says Polly.
Striking a Note for Music
To that end, Mrs. Roesch has generously supported students at the University of Illinois at Springfield. Most recently, she established a charitable gift annuity that will fund the Polly Roesch Music Scholarships and the Polly Roesch Endowed Music Fund.
Scholarships will be for students who participate in music groups and programs, with preference for voice students in music majors. The music fund will support sheet music, purchase and maintenance of instruments, and other enhancements of the music program at UIS.
Looking to the Stars
Polly, who served on the former Sangamon State University Board more than 27 years ago, has also provided funding to place a dome on the UIS observatory at Clayville, a tribute to her father who loved astronomy.
Her husband, Walter Roesch, died in 1977, 42 years after he married the former Polly Wenneborg. He was a successful business man who shared his wife’s commitment to giving.
An Investing Mastermind
Nonetheless, as financially comfortable as he left her, Mrs.Roesch is the investing mastermind behind the gifts.
“I work very diligently on my investments and am proud of what they earn,” says Mrs. Roesch. “I am just as happy to be able to donate it to worthy projects.”
She gets the most happiness out of giving to young scholars. Each year, a Sangamon County high school student receives a scholarship to pursue a vocal career at the college or university of their choice.
How do YOU spell happiness?
Asked what motivates her philanthropy, Polly smiles and says, “Happiness is helping others.” To those who know Polly Roesch, this personal motto seems infinitely appropriate.
If you also are interested in helping the music program, you can read more about here. The Meet Our Gift Officer link at left will introduce you to Jill Bohn, our gift officer who works on behalf of the music program. You can also contact our office. Thank you!
