By Susan Suleski
Like the tree in Shel Silverstein’s story, The Giving Tree, alumna Jacqueline Bellizzi, H Sci ’56, could not help but give to others. She gave her time, talent and service throughout her life to children, the elderly and others in need of a smile. Even after her untimely death in 2006 from a fall, Jackie continues to give through her estate, which supports Marquette’s College of Health Sciences and a scholarship for the university’s physical therapy students.
Jackie’s gift of nearly $1.3 million is the largest in the college’s history.
"It would be difficult to overstate the impact of Jackie Bellizzi's gift to Marquette students within the College of Health Sciences,” said Dean William Cullinan. “The funds have not only made it possible for talented students to access an outstanding physical therapy education, but also to provide neuroscience and neurorehabilitation research experiences for undergraduate students as they work alongside professors tackling issues of great clinical significance. I think she would be proud to know of the manner in which she is being remembered through her generosity"
During her career as a dedicated physical therapist and speech pathologist, Jackie lived out Marquette’s mission of cura personalis (“care for the whole person”) at hospitals, nursing homes and schools. She worked with individuals who developed speech problems due to strokes and was instrumental in starting group living facilities, sheltered employment programs and recreation services for children.
“Her boundless energy and enthusiasm were contagious,” said Janet Cross, one of Jackie’s dearest friends. “Her leadership skills were outstanding. She led by example, encouraging all along the way.
“She tackled huge projects as well as helping individuals with equal dedication. She believed that people must be actively involved in improving their own situations and therefore strived to give them the tools so they could improve themselves.”
Marquette University played a significant role in shaping Jackie’s dedication to excellence in her career and her commitment to service. Her life truly mirrored the pillars of a Marquette education — excellence, service, faith and leadership. She was extremely honored to graduate from Marquette’s first class of physical therapists. The clinical and course work were challenging, but she loved every minute of it.
In 1997, Jackie was diagnosed with esophageal cancer, but she was determined to stay positive. She never complained or felt sorry for herself, and even threw herself a party two weeks before her surgery, Janet said. Throughout this difficult period in her life, one thing that kept Jackie going was her Catholic faith.
“She truly received her strength from her belief in God and tried to live the life of a good Christian,” Janet said. “Her faith was an inspiration to all who knew her.
“Life lessons abound when you look back at Jackie’s life. Perseverance, loyalty, complete acceptance of others, living by example, setting and accomplishing goals and love of God all led to her happy and productive life. All these characteristics were honed at MU. She was my role model and I’m sure the role model for many.”
Because of Jackie’s generous spirit, others will have opportunities to follow in her steps.
