Lawrence E. Ruf Endowed Scholarship

Larry Ruf first learned of Saint Leo University during a backyard conversation with a neighbor. Larry was 92 years old and was visiting with his neighbor about what to do with his estate. His wife, Marian, had died a few years earlier and they had no children. Knowing Larry was Catholic, the neighbor suggested he consider assisting Saint Leo. Having no first-hand knowledge of the university, Larry drove 70 miles to the main campus from his Bradenton, FL home in November 2006 to find out more.

Larry had started as an office runner for Exxon and spent his entire career with them, retiring as an accountant. Larry and Marian were unassuming people who lived frugally. After several campus visits Larry decided Saint Leo was a good investment. He was especially interested in providing scholarships for deserving students. Because of a backyard conversation, a frugal lifestyle and a propensity for two people to help better society, future generations of Saint Leo University students will be the recipients of Larry Ruf’s generosity.