Patrons: Tim and Bobbie O’Neill

Timothy O'NeillTim O'Neill graduated in 1969 with a business degree and was a scholarship swimmer for Indiana State, serving as team captain his senior year. Time and Bobbie met while at Indiana State. Bobbie O’Neill graduated in 1972 with a degree in elementary education.

“Continuing education is important because it provides contemporary learning while helping to retain focus and relevance in our careers,” Bobbie O’Neill said. “We were both fortunate to be able to pursue post-graduate education to enhance our careers in education and banking."

Tim has 35 years experience in the banking industry, O'Neill retired as an executive of First Indiana Bank of Indianapolis. He served as senior vice president and president of the bank's national mortgage operation before retiring in 2005. He served as interim president of the ISU Foundation in 2006 (he had served on the ISU Foundation Board since 1996) and was honored with the 2007 ISU Distinguished Alumni Award. He was a member of ISU's Board of Trustees from 1987 to 1995 and was a member of the ISU Alumni Association Board from 1979 to 1985.

"I've always been an enthusiastic supporter of Indiana State. Since graduating in 1969, I've been trying to pay back the University for the experiences and opportunities they provided me as a student. I hope I can help others realize the impact Indiana State has had on them and how they can give back. This is an excellent opportunity to serve the University I know and love," Tim said.

In 2022, the couple gave a $200,000 gift to Indina State to create the Tim and Bobbie O’Neill Online MBA Scholarship. There are 25 O’Neill Scholars each year, all of whom receive $1,000 scholarships.

“The term ‘pay it forward’ perfectly describes what we all need to do to make sure that future generations enjoy the same resources that we enjoyed in our lifetime,” Tim O’Neill said. “We realize that something as valuable and productive as Indiana State University does not happen without decades of committed leaders and the sharing of necessary financial resources.”

Tim and Bobbie O'Neill

Tim and Bobbie O’Neill

Further Reading

ISU alumni give $200,000 to create online MBA scholarships (May 18, 2022)
Four to be honored with Distinguished Alumni Awards (​October 17, 2007)​
Tim O'Neill Named Interim President of the ISU Foundation (​​July 17, 2006)​