David Feinzig, E'47

For David Feinzig, E'47, receiving a scholarship that enabled him to attend college—a dream he thought was unattainable because of financial hardship—was his promising start. "That scholarship" David says, "turned the page and made college possible."

David graduated from high school at the age of 16 and was drafted into the Navy at 18 while attending Northeastern. After a year of service, he returned to finish his degree. Mature and persistent, he reaped the benefits of the cooperative learning experience. His co-op prepared him for his first job at Eastern Refractories. Rising through the ranks and learning many aspects of the business, he ultimately retired as the president of the company. David explains "On the job learning gave me a competitive advantage." That statement still holds true for today's Northeastern students.

In gratitude for his education, David and his wife, Diane, donated commercial real estate to Northeastern. Proceeds from the property's sale endowed a scholarship to support mechanical and industrial engineers. What's more, tax savings from the couple's gift helped to fulfill their financial goals.