University School Publications
Walking the Talk
Growing up in Kenya, Sharon and David never took education for granted—it was earned through grit, sacrifice, and unshakable hope. David’s school days began before sunrise, walking nearly two miles just to catch an hour-long bus into Nairobi, then trekking another six miles to and from his high school. Each step was a silent
promise to himself that his future would be different. Sharon’s journey was no less remarkable. Orphaned of her mother at just two years old, she was raised under the loving but humble care of her siblings. Her life took a transformative turn when she was granted the rare and precious opportunity to attend a Catholic girls’ boarding school—a gift that would open doors she never imagined possible.
Years later, their passion for learning brought them to the University of Nairobi, where they first met. Sharon and David both went on to earn advanced graduate degrees at Cleveland State University. Both credit their education with shaping their lives and making it possible for them to have the privilege of sending their boys to University School. They are committed to making that opportunity available for others.
Through Ohio’s Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) program, the Cheges support financial aid at University School while also receiving a dollar-for-dollar Ohio state tax credit. “We valued every moment of our education,” they share. “Now we want others to have that same chance.”
This past year, five University School students were fully supported through SGO gifts. This year, it will be seven. The impact is significant—and the process is simple and takes only a few minutes. Ohio taxpayers can receive a full credit of up to $750 for individuals or $1,500 for couples filing jointly by making a gift to the Ohio Association of Independent Schools' SGO, designated to University School. The tax credit is not a deduction, but rather a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the amount of tax owed to the State of Ohio.
David encourages everyone to take part: “It’s a win-win. The donor gets a 100% tax break, the school gains resources for students on financial aid, and a student’s life is forever changed.”
Years later, their passion for learning brought them to the University of Nairobi, where they first met. Sharon and David both went on to earn advanced graduate degrees at Cleveland State University. Both credit their education with shaping their lives and making it possible for them to have the privilege of sending their boys to University School. They are committed to making that opportunity available for others.
Through Ohio’s Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) program, the Cheges support financial aid at University School while also receiving a dollar-for-dollar Ohio state tax credit. “We valued every moment of our education,” they share. “Now we want others to have that same chance.”
This past year, five University School students were fully supported through SGO gifts. This year, it will be seven. The impact is significant—and the process is simple and takes only a few minutes. Ohio taxpayers can receive a full credit of up to $750 for individuals or $1,500 for couples filing jointly by making a gift to the Ohio Association of Independent Schools' SGO, designated to University School. The tax credit is not a deduction, but rather a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the amount of tax owed to the State of Ohio.
David encourages everyone to take part: “It’s a win-win. The donor gets a 100% tax break, the school gains resources for students on financial aid, and a student’s life is forever changed.”
Shaker Heights Campus JUNIOR K – GRADE 8
20701 Brantley Road, Shaker Heights, Ohio 44122Phone: (216) 321-8260
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2785 SOM Center Road, Hunting Valley, Ohio 44022Phone: (216) 831-2200
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