SDSU Library Receives $1 Million Donation for Children's Literature Collection
Christopher and Karen Sickels endowment will support SDSU's National Center for the Study of Children's Literature
The SDSU Library received a $1 million donation from Christopher (Kit) and Karen Sickels to fund an endowment in support of its collection and visiting scholar fellowships in children's literature, it was announced today. The gift creates the Library's largest single endowment.
The Christopher D. and Karen Sickels Endowment for Special Collection in Children's Literature will support SDSU's premier National Center for the Study of Children's Literature, which comprises the nation's largest faculty in the field.
SDSU will soon offer the first humanities doctorate in the California State University system in children's literature, and the endowment will support its scholars with the research materials necessary to excel in their discipline.
Both former San Diego school teachers, the Sickels said their gift fulfills two primary objectives: to serve all students and benefit both children and teachers.
"We liked the idea of being able to support the library because it is a resource for the campus and larger community," said Kit. "Helping SDSU purchase rare and unique books for children's literature also reflects our love of children and those who devote their lives to educating and inspiring them."
Kit received his bachelor's degree in education from SDSU, but went on to become a successful real estate entrepreneur. He is now a board member for The Campanile Foundation, SDSU's philanthropic auxiliary. His wife, Karen, is also an SDSU alumna having received her teaching credential at SDSU.
Evidence of their dedication and love for children's literature can be seen in Kit's prized catalog of first edition Dr. Seuss books.
"We were fortunate to have Theodor Geisel [Dr. Seuss] as a neighbor years ago. He helped me build my collection. Now I'm a few first editions short of a complete collection," Kit said. "I'm determined to fill in the gaps."
SDSU's Children's Literature Program, home to the National Center for the Study of Children's Literature, is one of the oldest and largest programs of its kind in the country. Among its faculty are leading scholars in children's literature, authors of numerous and distinguished books and essays in the field, and prize-winning researchers with national and international reputations.
