Susan Kliefoth Memorial Award Fund
At a Glance
Eligibility: Awarded to students with demonstrated academic achievement
Major: Special Education
Department: Communication Sciences and Special Education
How to apply: View the application to learn more about this award and apply for funding.
Contact: saad.sheikh@uga.edu
Fund Purpose
This fund provides an award(s) for a student(s) pursuing a degree in special education within the Department of Communication Sciences and Special Education. The award is intended to offset fees and expenses related to testing, certifications, research, equipment, supplies, travel, and any other related expenses involved with pursuing a degree in special education.About the Donor
This fund was established by Cara Kliefoth Banks in memory of her mother, Susan Kliefoth, to honor her lifelong dedication to education and her belief in the transformative power of exceptional teachers. Susan was a lifelong educator whose passion for teaching and commitment to students defined her career and her legacy. A proud University of Georgia graduate, Susan earned her master’s degree from UGA before going on to earn a specialist degree from Brenau University. She carried the knowledge and experiences gained through her education at UGA into a nearly 30-year career as an elementary school teacher with Gwinnett County Public Schools.
From 1986- 2014, Susan taught at Norton, Britt, and Craig Elementary Schools, where she became affectionately known as “Mrs. K.” She was a beloved educator who made a lasting impact on generations of students, families, and colleagues. Susan was named Craig Elementary’s Teacher of the Year for the 1998–99 school year and continued to volunteer in the school’s media center following her retirement.
Through this fund, Susan’s legacy will continue at the University of Georgia’s Mary Frances Early College of Education by supporting students pursuing degrees in early childhood education and helping prepare the next generation of educators.