Raised in Columbus, Ohio, Bob Ebinger always wanted to head east for college. Once on campus, he didn’t waste any time getting involved in all aspects of Trinity life. He joined the Jesters and the Goodwin Fellows, was an organizer of the Film Society, and served on the Mather Hall Board of Governors, and as a Junior Advisor. In addition, he was a member of DKE, which, he says, “had a very inclusive membership: biker types, intellectuals, foreign dignitaries, persons of all faiths, as well as the only student of color at the time.”
His classroom experience was equally eclectic. A history major, he fondly remembers courses taught by professors Downs (medieval), Davis (ancient), Steele (African) and Cooper (British) as well as his senior seminar in Soviet studies with Professor Netting. Outside of his major, he enjoyed an opera appreciation class with “the exuberant Dr. Barber.” Of all of his professors, he was closest with Professor George Nichols in the Theater Department and Professor John Dando, who taught Shakespeare. “Both of these men helped me become the person I am today through their guidance, encouragement, and friendship.” These mentors, and his love of history “helped greatly in my professional documentary film travels to Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, and gave me an appreciation for cultures very dissimilar to our own.” A true believer in the value of the liberal arts, Bob believes that this model of education “is essential to bringing people together to promote understanding, and to create a more peaceful world. Trinity continues to provide the opportunity to explore new ideas, challenge old perceptions, and develop self-awareness and confidence.”
For his 50th Reunion, Bob decided to include Trinity in his estate plans as a way to honor the memory of his two most beloved professors. Bob’s bequest will establish The Professors John Dando and George Nichols Scholarship Fund, which will provide financial aid, with preference given to qualified students who have demonstrated an interest in theater arts, film or digital media production. “I always wanted to give something back to Trinity,” says Bob. “I only wish I could have done this earlier, and shown professors Nichols and Dando how much they and their insight meant to me.”
