UIndy Alumna Provides ‘Transformative’ $100,000 Gift to Support Build Program Students

The Build program at the University of Indianapolis received a transformative $100,000 gift that will help more students with learning-related disabilities like autism and ADHD get the support they need to succeed in college and beyond.

The gift, from proud alumna Stephanie Metz (Physical Therapy), creates an endowed fund for Build students to help cover the costs of joining the program. Metz made the gift in honor of her parents, who both valued education. Her mother was a teacher who had a special love for her students who needed extra support because they learned a little differently. Metz’s connection to the program is also personal—her daughter has autism.

“Both of my parents believed that, with the right help, no challenge is impossible and students can achieve even more than they ever thought they could,” Metz said. “Seeing how my daughter thrives because of all the support she’s received from so many others along the way, I deeply understand the difference that the right resources can make to those with challenges. I want to pay it forward the way my parents and grandparents taught me.”

The Build program at UIndy provides individualized academic, social and emotional support for students including specialized courses, social lessons and activities, and one-on-one tutoring and coaching. The goal is to help students navigate college life, build independence and prepare for a career after graduation. It currently serves about 65 students.

The gift ensures that Build has consistent long-term support for years to come. It allows the University to continue to grow a program that focuses on real-world readiness for many different types of students.

“I am so thankful for Stephanie Metz and absolutely speechless at her act of generosity,” said Betsy McGill, director of Disability Resources and the Build program. “It is truly transformative. The power of a scholarship can open doors and change futures for students and their families. This gift allows us to help more students experience everything that the Build program has to offer.”

Metz, who was in the third graduating class of the UIndy master’s physical therapy program, hopes her gift serves as a catalyst for others. She also hopes the donation raises awareness of the Build program and the opportunities it creates. Metz hopes more people know how special the University of Indianapolis is because of Build.

On the eve of UIndy Day on April 23, her investment stands as a powerful example of how one individual’s passion can create lasting change. Even if she isn’t an alum of Build herself, she’s giving because she cares and wants to create additional inclusive opportunities in higher education. It also reinforces to everyone, including prospective students and families, that UIndy is actively investing in programs that meet students where they are.