Written by Illinois School of Social Work
08.16.19
Deryk and Camille Gilmore, both Illinois 1996 MBA graduates, have created a scholarship at the School of Social Work in honor of Deryk’s mother, Yvonne Gilmore.
Yvonne, who grew up in Buffalo, NY, graduated from Rosary Hill College before attending SUNY to get her BS in Social Work and Adelphi University to get her Master’s in Social Work. Yvonne went on to work in many social work positions, with a passion for single mothers and families who were at risk in New York City. She instilled in her sons Deryk and Jason the importance of education and giving back to the community.
Deryk and Camille were inspired to give back to Illinois Social Work by the help they received from Dr. Paul Magelli, late professor of the Gies College of Business. Dr. Magelli encouraged Deryk and Camille during their MBA studies, and he reinforced Yvonne Gilmore’s inspiration to give back to those in need. The opportunities given to Deryk and Camille allowed Deryk to start a successful sports agency- Day 1 Sports and Entertainment, and Camille to become a Vice President in Human Resources at Boston Scientific Corporation.
The Yvonne Gilmore Social Work Scholarship will be given annually to a BSW student with a demonstrated financial need, and will promote diversity within the School of Social Work. Dean Steve Anderson expressed his gratitude for the Gilmore’s generosity: “We are so appreciative of what Deryk and Camille Gilmore are doing through their scholarship support. It is especially moving that the scholarship will honor Yvonne Gilmore and her lifelong service as a social worker who focused on those most in need.”