"We will make it happen,
whether they want us to or not!"
"We will make it happen,
whether they want us to or not!"
"We will make it happen,
whether they want us to or not!"
"We will make it happen,
whether they want us to or not!"
"We will make it happen,
whether they want us to or not!"
"We will make it happen,
whether they want us to or not!"
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"We will make it happen,
whether they want us to or not!"
- Marvin Gillery
This statement, made by a young Western Michigan University student in the
Fall of 1992, encapsulates the mission of THE DIEHARD FOUNDATION today.
INSPIRATION: Marvin Gillery
"Diehard" was the loving moniker bestowed upon a young black WMU student by his fraternity when he joined Kappa Alpha Psi in the year 1989. Diehard, because of his "never give up" style of leadership that not only led the Gamma Beta chapter to prominence but benefited Black and ultimately all students at Western both socially and educationally for decades after his departure.
Marvin led an inspirational life as a fraternity brother, husband, father and successful business leader. His final act of leadership was to show those around him how to fight against an overwhelming and immense opponent such as cancer. A battle he fought and lost with grace and dignity on December 12th, 2011.
Our Mission
The core mission of THE DIEHARD FOUNDATION is to seek out and support disadvantaged college students attending Western Michigan University who, despite their past and current obstacles, have supported, created and/or provided leadership that has improved the lives of other similarly situated students at WMU which in turn improves the lives of the entire student body and campus as a whole.
Our Vision
Through mentorship, scholarships and other financial support, the Foundation works to identify and foster "Leaders of the Future". Leaders who find themselves emerging from humble and possibly difficult situations, yet despite this fact, they labor to uplift those around them. With support, we believe this worthy effort can and should be multiplied.
Marvin Gillery was not only committed to the student body of WMU, but to all people of the community as well. This type of altruism is what we at the Foundation believe the world needs more of today. Leaders that will work to create a more inclusive and equitable society both on and off campus, far into the future.
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