NE North Dakota News

Dr. Karen (Brekke) Hoelzer Vilcinskas, an alumna of the University of North Dakota (UND), is expressing her gratitude to the institutions that shaped her career through a significant financial contribution. Inspired by her parents, who have long supported educational causes, Karen is utilizing a Charitable Remainder Unitrust (CRUT) to allocate funds to both UND and St. Louis University (SLU).

Karen's father, Dr. Arne Brekke, was a language professor at UND and established a Norwegian genealogical book collection. Her mother, Dr. Beverly Wade Brekke-Bailey, pursued advanced degrees at UND and set up an endowment for special education scholarships. Following their example, Karen completed her undergraduate studies at UND, majoring in math and science, before attending medical school at SLU. She later practiced oncology for more than three decades at Springfield Clinic in Illinois.

Recognizing the pivotal role both universities played in her journey, Karen decided to give back. “UND and SLU were instrumental in preparing me for my career,” she stated. Karen's CRUT will provide her with income during her lifetime and ultimately benefit the two universities, with 90% of the remainder being equally divided posthumously. UND’s share will be dedicated to student scholarships.

Karen had been actively contributing to her parents’ endowments supporting education-oriented initiatives for many years. She now hopes her contribution will "pay it forward" by easing the financial strain on future students. “It gives me great joy to know these funds will ease the financial burden for future students,” she said.

This act of philanthropy aligns with the objectives of the UND LEADS Strategic Plan, which emphasizes reducing educational barriers through scholarships and other financial aid avenues. Those interested in more information about the strategic plan can contact Mike Wozniak or Ryan Zerr, co-chairs of the UND LEADS Implementation Committee.