George Maihafer gives back to ODU
By: Angelica Walker
George Maihafer was hired as an assistant professor more than thirty years ago and started two scholarships at ODU for thephysical therapy program overfifteen years ago when he was the program's chairman.
"My involvement in the program was a part of the reason I wanted to give back to ODU," said Maihafer. "Being a part of ODU's faculty allowed me to grow and develop professionally as aprofessor and physical therapist. ODU really nurtures its professors. It's an innovative place to be that allows you to grow. Giving back as much as Ican is an opportunity to say thank you."
When Maihafer was contacted about the plans for the new COHS building, he saw the opportunity to give back in a major way. He was eager to be apart of the process and provide some support for a "bricks and mortar project." This is the first time Maihafer is giving to a construction project but he knows this building will add great value to the school and university overall since the campus is changing and growing every year.
In the new building, he hopes that there will be spaces to foster new relationships among students. He added, "this will allow students to meet majors in and outside of their programs and build the connections they need to be successful after graduation. This new building will also be a collaborative space for faculty.
"Maihafer is a member of the 1930 Society which honors all planned giving donors for their support of the university's mission. He has named ODU a beneficiary of his estate and has a planned gift in place. Through this generous gift, he will leave a legacy of philanthropy and support that will make a lasting impact at ODU.
When asked how others can give back and donate to ODU, Maihafer noted that anyone who's interested can do it and will often step up. When he started the scholarships in the physical therapy program, he started small but made giving a priority. He encourages others to do the same and create a manageable savings plan that will mature overtime.
