Former GW professor of American Studies Roger G. Kennedy led a life that most of us can truly admire — steeped in learning about the world and dedicated to the notion that the best kind of legacy each of us can leave is an open door through which others may walk. He served six U.S. presidents, created acclaimed documentaries for PBS, and brought Dorothy's ruby slippers, among other items, to the Smithsonian Institution. To top off his illustrious career, Kennedy led the National Park Service during the mid-1990s to a rejuvenation and expansion of the country's national park system.

From start to finish, Kennedy's life's work reflected a passion for educating people about American history. Thus, when he was planning his estate, he gave considerable thought to how his plan could sustain his lifelong commitment to and enthusiasm for education and American history.

This commitment inspired him to designate a significant portion of his assets, which will ultimately come to GW through his wife Frances' estate, to establish the Roger G. Kennedy Fellowship Program in GW's Columbian College of Arts and Sciences.

This future endowed Fellowship Program will provide tuition support to enable National Park Service employees of three years' standing the opportunity to earn graduate credits at GW as "Kennedy Fellows." Ideally they, in turn, will be inspired to teach others about the wonders of America-be it the country's natural beauty, its rich heritage, or its venerable history.

Read more about Roger's gift.