July 1, 2005

Couple teams to make a difference at SJSU

By Donna H. Eliason
Staff Writer

Pat Smith and Luke Levers of The Villages made a strategic decision when they entered a second marriage 21 years ago: To enjoy life together.

Luke Levers and Pat Smith have helped raise more than $1 million worth of scholarships for the San Jose State University athletic program. As a member of the College of Education alumni board, Pat helped purchase the one-room schoolhouse for the San Jose Historical Museum.

At the time, they didn’t realize they would be focusing their commitment and enthusiasm on the San Jose State University School of Education and the Athletic Department.

It all began when Luke read a newspaper article asking people to support the San Jose State University football team. He had graduated from the University of Finlay in Ohio. Pat, a San Jose native, had graduated from the SJSU School of Education, but had not been an active alumna.

Yet both loved sports. So they bought football tickets that year, but didn’t attend any games. The next year, not only did they buy tickets and attend games, they invited many friends to their tailgate parties.

Luke says with a smile, “It was easy for me to get involved with SJSU because I always loved sports, and the SJSU colors are the same as my alma mater.”

They typically attended just home games because of their weekend square dancing commitment. At their first out-of-town game in Minneapolis, Minn., they hung out with other SJSU rooters and some football team members.

One of the ladies there happened to be a member of the alumni board. She asked the Levers if they’d like to become involved. Both agreed, as long as they could serve together.

Raising funds, enthusiasm
As members of the Spartan Foundation Board, the Levers started by raising funds for the athletic program. Luke taught 30 years and Pat 38 years at Lyndale School in the Alum Rock Elementary School district before they retired.

So they turned to their long-time friend Arm Hanzad, principal of Pala School in the Alum Rock School District, for their first pledge of $50.

By the time Luke became president of the Spartan Foundation Board, they had raised over $1 million for scholarships. Now he is president of the Quarterback Club, which holds monthly meetings to perpetuate enthusiasm and funds for the team.

Pat joined the SJSU College of Education alumni board when they purchased the one-room schoolhouse for the San Jose Historical Museum. Her term as president ended June 30.

Recently, during a “financial crunch,” the alumni board paid $5,000 to College of Education Dean Susan Meyer to retain a much needed but unfounded summer school class for new teachers. This last year they painted the one room schoolhouse in Kelly Park, awarded two scholarships to credential pursuing teachers and gave some $500 faculty grants.

Pat is now president-elect of the alumni board, which will be followed by a two-year presidency. The board plans activities and events to keep the alumni informed about and involved with the university. They are the “volunteer face” for the SJSU Washington Square magazine.

Moving to The Villages several years ago gave them another opportunity to support SJSU. Along with Bill Eckert and Pat and Arm Hanzad, the Levers started a Friends of SJSU organization, attracting many retired alumni, faculty members and deans living there.

What motivates them?
Pat says, “It’s my school and my city. I’m extremely proud of what they’re doing.”

Luke adds, “Look at San Jose State University. It’s a school that’s been under-recognized, but yet has given so much to the community. Just look at the value of what it does.”

Both the Levers enjoy people and seeing results of their work. Luke says, “I like being busy. I taught school the same time I was a pastor for l7 years in Ohio. I’d be bored if there wasn’t anything to do.”

Pat continues,“ I like using the leadership skills I developed in the classroom. I enjoy keeping in touch with young people and knowing what’s going on in education. I also like to try new things.”

For example, two years ago, some alumni traveled to Canada. Pat was asked to be liaison between the alumni and travel company. “It was exciting to travel and to meet new people.”

The results
Though the examples are numerous, one Southern California football player stands out. Deonce Whitaker’s family was unable to support his education. Since his SAT scores were low, he was placed in a program where he had to prove his academic standing for one year.

After that he was given a scholarship. During his last year at SJSU, he spent time in Lyndale classrooms helping and motivating students. After graduation Deonce played football with Canadian teams.

Both Pat and Luke agree they’ve received more personal benefits, as individuals and as a couple, than they’ve given.
San Jose State University plus hundreds of students have benefited from their passion, enthusiasm and dedication. This is one retired couple that is using their time, talent and energy to make a significant difference.

Despite their busy schedule, both Pat and Luke enjoy their large family, play golf and bridge and attend Evergreen Valley Church. How do they enjoy these things? Together!