What began as a small initiative to support student research in the mid-1970s has grown into a powerful movement at PLNU. For 50 years, the Research Associates program has brought together hundreds of alumni and friends whose generosity fuels life-changing summer research for biology and chemistry students, guided by the unwavering leadership and giving of Michael and Kathy McConnell.
Michael and Kathy McConnell have dedicated more than five decades to serving PLNU and have given generously to programs such as the Writer’s Symposium, the Center for Justice & Reconciliation (CJR), Research Associates, and Study Abroad. Yet they still see their work as unfinished. Their hope is for the legacy of these programs to outlive them and continue blessing students for generations.
Michael first met Kathy in January 1968 at Pasadena College (now PLNU). He was immediately struck by her intelligence, sophistication, and grace. That meeting in Dr. Paul Culbertson’s psychology course marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership, spanning 54 years of marriage and nearly 60 years of shared connection to the university — from Pasadena College to Point Loma Nazarene University.
For the McConnells, the university has been far more than a place of education. It has been a community, a professional home, and a source of deep and lasting friendships. “[This university] has been a blessing to both Kathy and me for nearly six decades,” Michael reflects. “It would be unthinkable for us not to give something back in return for all that we have received from the institution.”
“This university has been a blessing to both Kathy and me for nearly six decades. It would be unthinkable for us not to give something back in return for all that we have received from the institution.”
That spirit of giving back is especially evident in Michael’s leadership of PLNU’s Research Associates program. Under his guidance, Research Associates has raised more than $2 million to support summer research for biology and chemistry students and faculty, with a goal of reaching $200,000 in annual giving for the first time this year. These opportunities range from gaining experience with local government agencies, biotech firms, and universities, to journeying abroad to discover diverse ecosystems around the world.
Michael credits his comfort in inviting others to give to a lesson from his mother: “If you don’t ask, how can you expect anybody to respond?” His approach goes far beyond the ask — each year, he personally handwrites notes on every donor’s annual report, ensuring that contributors feel the same personal care and connection that have fueled the program’s growth.
The results have been remarkable. What began with a single faculty member and two students in the first year has grown to 70 students and 15 faculty members each summer.
Michael knows from experience the life-changing potential of these hands-on opportunities. As a student, his work in the lab with mentors like Vic Heasley, Val Christensen, and Glen Keys opened his eyes to the possibilities of discovery.
“I see that happen to students every year,” he says. “After getting into the lab and discovering something, they realize how satisfying it can be. I want to ensure that experience endures for generations to come.”
The McConnells’ vision for lasting impact also shapes their estate planning. Including PLNU in their will was an easy decision.
“This university has been a part of our lives for so long, we wanted to make a statement about how much it means to us,” Kathy explains.
Their planned gift is directed to the areas they care most about, such as Research Associates, Study Abroad, and other initiatives.
“Not only is it paying back, it’s paying forward to make sure there is a legacy for students,” Kathy says.
“Not only is it pay[ing] back, it’s pay[ing] forward to make sure there is a legacy for students,” Kathy says.
After more than half a century of service and giving, Michael and Kathy McConnell remain deeply committed to PLNU’s mission. Their vision is to see the programs they love thrive long into the future, continuing to open doors for students to learn, discover, and grow.
Through their leadership, generosity, and planned gift, the McConnells are not just investing in today’s students. They are ensuring a legacy that will shape lives for decades to come.
