Dr. Dale Otto’s fascination with how people live in and connect with one another around the world set the foundation for his contributions to education. It found expression in volunteer teaching assignments in five countries, including China, Japap, and Zimbabwe.
In 1996, he and Mrs. Elizabeth Otto spent a year at Africa University helping to launch the Faculty of Education and the Intensive English Language Program. He served as a volunteer visiting professor in English and Second Language Learning from 1996-1997, and subsequently in the fall semesters of 2000 and 2002.
Mrs. Otto, an accomplished artist (painting and printmaking), shared her skills with the children and students in the campus community. She created and donated fine works of art depicting the beauty and rich biodiversity of the Easter Highlands of Zimbabwe. Much of her work was sold in the university bookstore during her time on campus.
The Ottos embarked on a journey in the early life of Africa University, and they are excited to extend their involvement, now 20 years later, with the establishment of a $10,000 endowed scholarship. They appreciate the life-long relationships that developed with former students and retired faculty, and they maintain a keen interest in the university’s evolving impact. “The changes since we first worked at the university (1996-97) are remarkable and gratifying,” they said.
The Dale and Elizabeth Otto Endowed Scholarship will support undergraduate students.
Andra M. Stevens, Director, Communications and Creative Services, Africa University Development Office
A World Service Special Gift is a designated financial contribution made by an individual, local church, organization, district or annual conference to a project authorized as such by the Connectional Table. Current World Service Special Gifts projects include the Africa University Endowment Fund, the Leonard Perryman Communications Scholarship for Ethnic Minority Students, the Methodist Global Education Fund, the National Anti-Gambling Project and the Lay Missionary Planting Network.
