Scholarship celebrates I.E. Millstone's
100 birthday
(from left) Bob Millstone, Colleen Millstone, David Millstone, I.E. Millstone, Hans Schacke, Susan Millstone Schacke and Linda Robertson celebrated I.E. Millstone's 100th birthday in January. The family established a $100,000 endowed scholarship at UM–St. Louis in his honor.
Jan. 6 was fast approaching, and that day was really going to mean something to the grandchildren of legendary St. Louis builder I.E. Millstone. The date was significant for two reasons. It would be their grandfather's 100th birthday, and it meant they had to answer an important question: What gift should we get for him?
Grandson Bob Millstone and his siblings decided to create a scholarship honoring their grandfather at the University of Missouri–St. Louis.
"We wanted a meaningful and significant way to commemorate my grandfather's 100th birthday," Bob Millstone said. "My grandmother, Goldie, already has a scholarship named after her at UM–St. Louis. We thought this would be the perfect way to honor my grandfather, as well."
The Millstone family established a $100,000 endowed scholarship named the "I.E. Millstone Centennial Scholarship." Recipients must be full-time students at the university, and they must demonstrate a strong commitment to public service, community collaboration and leadership.
For years, I.E. Millstone has been demonstrating his own commitment to public service in St. Louis. Millstone, who at the age of 22, founded Millstone Construction, Inc., served as president of the company for more than six decades. During that time, he headed several major construction projects, including the first Busch Stadium, Interstate 64 and the Federal Building in downtown St. Louis.
Millstone cannot be described as retired, or even semi-retired. He goes into the office every day as acting president of K & M Investors and the Millstone Foundation. He also supports the local Jewish community, educational institutions and many professional and community organizations.
Bob Millstone, president of The Millstone Company, says his grandfather has always set a tremendous example and has played a profound role in his life.
"My grandfather's sense of integrity has had such an impact on our family and community," he said. "It's his deep respect for, and interest in, others that has made him a success."
I.E. Millstone says his family supports about 100 scholarships in a number of St. Louis-area schools.
"It's a wonderful feeling to have the ability to help individuals, who then, in turn, help our city and country," he said. "I've enjoyed watching the accomplishments of the students we support, as they complete their education and enter the working world."
I.E. Millstone says the availability of affordable, public higher education is a key factor in the future of St. Louis, and scholarships are of utmost importance.
"There are many who can't afford to attend a private university," he said. "Today's tuition costs make scholarships a necessity, so I'm very pleased that my grandchildren have honored me with this scholarship at UM–St. Louis."
Over the years, I.E. Millstone says he has come to understand the satisfaction in helping others, and that everyone can do something to contribute.
"A person's economic level isn't important, because everyone can play a part," he said. "In my 100 years, I've found no greater reward than giving back to the community."
© 2007 University of Missouri-St. Louis