CAMPAIGN

Haddad estate provides endowment

By Shannon Puphal
University Communications

A former faculty member who found a home at Fresno State has bequeathed nearly $1 million for an endowment to establish the Marie N. Haddad Nursing Scholarships. The scholarships, offered to nursing students through the College of Health and Human Services, continue Haddad’s personal legacy for the students she treasured.  

Haddad, a native of Lebanon, received a nursing diploma from the American University of Beirut. At the age of 31, she left her hometown of Hammana and came to America to pursue a higher education. She earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing at St. Louis University and a master’s degree in nursing education and guidance at the University of Washington.

Haddad taught at several schools and in 1964 moved to Fresno and began teaching at Fresno State as an assistant professor. She became a full professor in the fall of 1975 and was awarded Professor Emerita status upon her retirement in 1983.  After Haddad retired, she remained in Fresno where she lived quietly and was best known for her love of gardening.

“Marie left an indelible impression on the students and faculty who had the opportunity to work with her,” said Karen Nishio, Professor Emerita of Nursing. “Her love for nursing will continue to flourish through the students that receive these generous scholarships.”

Haddad was a member of the Fresno State Heritage Society, which recognizes long-term giving plans through donors’ estates.  Membership in the society is open to individuals and families who inform the university that a bequest provision has been made in their will or other planned giving option.