The Groves give back

Dennis Groves and his family established The Dennis L. Groves Family Scholarship to support aspiring Navy ROTC students from Ohio majoring in engineering, two programs that empowered Dennis and shaped his future.

How would you describe your relationship with The Ohio State University?
The connection began in the year 1900 when my grandfather enrolled in the College of Agriculture. Since then, nearly all of his descendants have attended Ohio State. That pattern continues today and into the future, as some of my grandchildren already aspire to become Buckeyes. In the years since my graduation, I have been able to participate in Concert Band reunions, Naval ROTC Unit reunions and other activities including, of course, attending as many Buckeye football games as possible.

Do you have a But for Ohio State...?
Ohio State offered me opportunities to shape my life as a professional musician, a commissioned Naval Officer, a manufacturing manager for 35 years with The Procter & Gamble Company (thanks to interviews set up by Ohio State's College of Engineering), and, after retiring from P&G, as President of an international consulting firm. Not a bad ride for a kid from a small town in Northeastern Ohio!

What compelled you to establish The Groves Family Scholarship?
In addition to pursuing and receiving what was then a five year Bachelor of Industrial Engineering degree and a Professional Engineer license from the State of Ohio, I was active in more than 20 organizations on campus. Of those, two stand out as having a significant impact on my education, my development as an individual and my career. The first was The Ohio State University Concert Band, under the absolutely outstanding direction and leadership of Dr. Donald E. McGinnis, in which I was privileged to perform with incredible musicians as Assistant Solo Cornetist for five years; the second was the Naval ROTC Unit in which I was also privileged, this time in serving as Midshipman Battalion Commander in 1964-65. I then went on to serve on active duty for six years, which further developed my leadership abilities. Over the years, my family and I have contributed to both programs to help students in the future have the same opportunities as I had.

What does philanthropy mean to you?
Those who came before made it possible for us to take advantage of a great University and to receive a great education. Our small contribution, when added to the contributions of thousands of other appreciative Buckeyes, will help others to have the same opportunities.

What is your vision for The Groves Family Scholarship?
Our vision for NROTC scholarships is to, while it is possible for us to do so, enable others to enjoy the benefits of participating in those organizations and serve our country. We also hope to provide some funds to allow the Professor of Naval Science to make necessary improvements to the Unit's facilities.

If you would like to share your story, please contact Leslie Kreinberg at kreinberg.3@osu.edu or at 614-247-6600