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Don Schmaderer

Don Schmaderer

Don Schmaderer recalls that when he was a student at Chadron State College in the early 1960s, he was a member of a strategic planning group that tried to envision what the campus might look like as more of the nation’s baby boomers sought higher education and the college grew.

“We tried to imagine what would happen,” Don says. “There was really nothing east of Crites Hall then, and what developed was about 10 times more than we ever anticipated. It was fun to watch the college grow and develop.”

Don was a farm boy from Stuart who was recruited to play football for the Eagles by coaches Bill Baker and Dudley Draxton. He was a freshman on the Eagles’ undefeated team in 1958 and was an all-conference player and captain of the 1961 team his senior year. Don has been a banker in his hometown most of his career, where he continues to serve as chairman of the board of the Tri-County Bank.

Chadron State College has remained one of his interests. He keeps tabs on the athletic teams and other developments and tries to get back to campus at least once a year.

As part of the Next Horizon Campaign for Chadron State College, Don contributed to the reconstruction of Don Beebe Stadium and Elliott Field. Don has also named the Chadron State Foundation as beneficiary of his IRA as part of the Living Legacy Program. “Being involved in my community taught me that we need to develop partnerships to make progress. Now is a good time to create a partnership with Chadron State College.”

You, like Don, can create a lasting partnership with Chadron State College. Contact Ben Watson at bwatson@csc.edu or 308-432-7007 to get started or for help finding the best gift type for you.