Elizabeth Buchtel Awards

The Elizabeth Buchtel Award is presented at the University of Akron Foundation Spring meeting hosted by the Stewardship & Women in Philanthropy Committee. The award is named for Elizabeth Davidson Buchtel, wife of The University of Akron (UA) founder, John R. Buchtel. During her life, she and her husband donated their time, financial resources and efforts to build what is now The University of Akron and provide food, loans and support to students. This award honors women who, like Elizabeth Buchtel, have been leaders in philanthropy to UA and have mentored bold and selfless giving by other women.

Elizabeth Buchtel Award Recipients 

Marie Bevilacqua ‘71, ‘74
Raised in a family that prized education and hard work, Marie Bevilacqua’s journey led her to become a dedicated educator and philanthropist alongside her husband, Frank ‘72, ‘74. Together, the couple established the Frank P. and Marie L. Bevilacqua Family Foundation, supporting various civic interests in Akron, including education and health care. Their strong ties to The University of Akron (UA) are evident through scholarships and donations, reflecting their commitment to giving back to the community. Bevilacqua’s unwavering belief in the power of education to transform lives drives her philanthropic efforts, ensuring that students with limited resources can pursue their dreams at UA

Karen S. Steininger ‘82
Karen Steininger embodies the essence of intentional good deeds and community support instilled in her from a young age. Hailing from Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, Steininger’s philanthropic endeavors in Houston, Texas, reflect her commitment to uplifting underserved individuals and families. Despite the geographical distance, her roots in Akron remain strong, evident through her generous contributions to UA. Alongside her husband Frank ‘81, she champions scholarships and initiatives aimed at reducing financial burdens and fostering academic success for students.

2024 University of Akron Honorary Alumnus Award Recipient 

Sally D. Read
The 2024 University of Akron Honorary Alumnus Award recipient, also presented at the University of Akron Foundation Spring Meeting hosted by the Stewardship & Women in Philanthropy Committee, is Sally Read, a warm and generous individual with a deep-rooted commitment to the community. Her dedication to helping others, particularly students at UA, alongside her husband Roger ‘63, ‘66, extends to various committees and philanthropic efforts. She serves UA in a variety of capacities. She has been a member of the University of Akron Foundation’s Stewardship & Women in Philanthropy Committee since 2018 and a member of the Arts Advancement Council since 2022. The Read family’s benevolence extends far beyond campus. They support a variety of organizations throughout Akron, including Julie Billiart Schools, Open M Ministry, Project GRAD, Children’s Concert Society, Goodwill Industries of Akron, Leadership Akron, Akron Kiwanis for Kids, Rotary Club, Stewart’s Caring Place and the Akron Symphony Orchestra. Read’s legacy has left a significant impact on those she assists throughout the wider Akron community.