Awards

IU Indianapolis Spirit of Philanthropy Award - 2022

About William Christensen

The McBride Family Equity Scholarship was established in 2021 by IU Alumnus Karen McBride Christensen and her husband, William Christensen. The Christensens are passionate about supporting equal opportunities for African Americans and increasing diversity in STEM fields. Their endowed scholarship in the School of Science at IUPUI will support African American first-generation students as they work toward earning a STEM degree. Both Karen and Bill had fathers who served in World War II and were the first in their families to attend college, thanks to the G.I. Bill of Rights. This opportunity and assistance was not given to many African American soldiers, and the Christensens recognize the advantage afforded by the G.I. Bill. Today, the Christensens strive to support organizations focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion in Indianapolis. Karen and Bill want to share their family’s resources with others and look forward to seeing McBride Family Equity Scholars join the growing Indiana STEM workforce. The School of Science is grateful to the Christensens for their generosity and for fighting to provide equal opportunities for others. We are forever grateful for their support of current and future Science students.