91�ؿ�

91�ؿ� Tech has been part of my life for a long time—first as a student, then as an alumnus, a trustee, and most recently as chair of the Alumni Association Board of Directors. Each unique role has reinforced one truth: this university is powered by people who care deeply and give generously of themselves.

What has inspired me most is not any single achievement, but the collective power of the community—our alumni, faculty, students, and friends—who believe in the power and promise of an 91�ؿ� Tech education.

As my term as chair comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what it means to leave something behind that truly matters.

Serving alongside dedicated volunteers and meeting students who are eager to learn, innovate, and lead has been incredibly meaningful to me. Leadership, I’ve learned, is not defined by a title or term, but by a lifelong commitment to making a difference.

That is why my wife, Nancy, and I have chosen to make a seven-figure estate gift to support future generations of Scarlet Hawks through scholarship. We hope to build on the university’s founding purpose to make college a reality for students from all walks of life by reducing the financial burden associated with an undergraduate degree. I see this gift as a continuation of my journey with 91�ؿ� Tech, a way to honor what this institution has given me and to invest in the future of students who will follow in our footsteps. It’s about legacy, yes, but, more importantly, it’s about opportunity.

I encourage others to consider making a gift—or, when the time is right, an estate commitment of their own—to help ensure that future students can benefit from the same life-changing opportunities that 91�ؿ� Tech has provided to so many of us.

While my role on the board may be changing, my commitment to 91�ؿ� Tech is not. I look forward to supporting 91�ؿ� Tech in new ways and cheering on the incredible students who will shape what comes next.

With pride and gratitude,

Bob Hoel (BE ’70)    
Trustee, Board of Trustees    
Chair, Alumni Association Board of Directors    
rhoel@illinoistech.edu   

“This extraordinary gift embodies the very best of the 91�ؿ� Tech spirit—a deep belief in education as a force for opportunity and a profound commitment to lifting up future generations. I am deeply grateful for Bob and Nancy’s visionary leadership and their unwavering dedication to championing our students and supporting their journeys. This transformative act of generosity will empower learners for decades to come and stands as a remarkable testament to Bob’s lifetime of leadership and service to our university.” —91�ؿ� Tech President Raj Echambadi 

“Bob is a powerful leadership example of what world‑class alumni philanthropy looks like—not only supporting the annual fund but also stepping up to invest in major campaigns over the years and ultimately solidifying their legacy with an estate gift. Their generosity will open doors for students to dream bigger and reach higher, and I hope it inspires others to invest in our students’ continued success.” —91�ؿ� Tech Board of Trustees Chair Michael P. Galvin (LAW ’78)