Removing barriers to success for all students

Generous commitment from Keith Monda and Veronica Brady fosters well-being through holistic support

Simon Bessey ’21, ’22 SMF, a French international student at The Ohio State University, eagerly pursued his studies in business economics and finance. However, his journey was far from easy.

As a student with F-1 visa status, he was limited to working on campus 20 hours a week. His initial job in Dining Services afforded him free meals, but when work hours didn’t align with his class schedule, he faced financial strain and struggled to cover basic living expenses.

Bessey experienced food insecurity, which coupled with other challenges, affected his mental health. He found himself in a “negative circle” of circumstances. “School itself was never an issue, it was everything going on around it,” he says.

Overwhelmed and depleted, Bessey considered dropping out. Then he learned about a food pantry and counseling services — vital resources that became a lifeline for him — through Ohio State’s Office of Student Life.

Rising demand for essential needs support

Bessey’s story is not unique. More than 20% of Ohio State students experience food insecurity, according to a 2023 Office of Student Life survey. During fiscal year 2024, the Buckeye Food Alliance reported more than 8,500 visits, a 31% increase over fiscal year 2023.

College students who experience essential needs insecurity — not having consistent access to food, housing, clothing and financial and mental health resources — face significant barriers that can lead to declines in academic performance and overall well-being.

Ohio State has long been committed to creating an environment where all students can thrive no matter their challenges. Thanks to an incredible commitment from donors Keith Monda ’68, ’71 MA, and his partner, Veronica Brady, the university is poised to make an even greater impact on student success when the Monda Student Resource Center (MSRC) opens during winter 2025.

“We are extremely grateful to Keith Monda and Veronica Brady, whose generous contributions will make the Monda Student Resource Center a sustainable resource,” Ohio State President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. says. “Their commitment to our students' well-being reflects the shared values of care and compassion that define our institution, helping us to ensure that no student should have to choose between their education and basic necessities.”

“We want our students to know that we are here for them when they need us,” Lovell says. “The MSRC endowment will be transformational and life-changing for our students.”

Their gift to the MSRC will ensure that essential needs resources are available to current and future Buckeyes, helping students reach their full potential in a supportive environment.

“For us, it was a perfect opportunity to emphasize the importance that everybody must be okay at the end of the day,” Monda says. “To know there's a place on campus where students can get the guidance and assistance they need — and that it bears the Monda name — we could not be prouder.”

Monda’s inspiration for giving traces back to his days as a graduate student at Ohio State. A neighbor left a note asking to borrow money so she could feed her children, and she would pay him back when she got her paycheck. Monda kept the note, now taped to the inside of a kitchen cabinet, which serves as a daily reminder.

“It’s about leveling the playing field and making sure that everybody gets the opportunity to be successful — independent of how they define success,” Monda says.

The MSRC will not only enhance accessibility — students can walk, drive or take a bus there — but it will also provide a welcoming environment for students seeking support.

By swiping their BuckID, students can use the center’s services at no cost. Students can browse an online menu of options, selecting food, personal care items or clothing, and schedule a convenient pick-up with no wait time. Daily hours of operation are staggered to accommodate students’ varying schedules.

As the university anticipates an increase in demand for services, the MSRC is well-positioned to adapt and grow, Lovell says. It will employ a dedicated program manager and support specialist to assist students in navigating resources, a crucial role in removing barriers that often prevent students from getting the help they need.

Reducing stigma to enhance accessibility

Now living in Los Angeles where he is building a career and family, Bessey is deeply grateful for the assistance he received at Ohio State. With access to nutritious food and personal hygiene products, Bessey was able to maintain a level of food safety. Even more important, he says, he felt empowered to navigate his way forward, both academically and personally.

Reflecting on his experience, Bessey stresses the importance of reducing the stigma associated with seeking help. “No one should feel ashamed for reaching out when they need support,” he says. “It’s crucial for students to understand that resources are available and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.”

Monda and Brady couldn’t agree more. They are beyond thrilled about the positive short- and long-term impact the center will have on students.

“There’s no judgment, which is incredibly important,” Monda says. “It's not that you didn't do something right or that you are not good enough. Circumstances didn't work for you. We're going to put you in a place where you can succeed and take down those barriers.”

After enjoying decades of professional success, Monda and Brady consider themselves fortunate to further their philanthropic endeavors together, whether it’s supporting Ohio State or other initiatives that advance children, education and conservation. They continue to advocate for the power of making a meaningful difference through the collective act of giving back.