Morningside College in Sioux City has received one of the largest estate gifts in the college’s history. The gifts from the estates of long-time morningside supporters, Leon and Helen Koebrick of Charles City, total $3.2 million. Approximately $1.3 million was directed to an unrestricted endowment.
Another $1.9 million was directed to the Leon and Helen Koebrick endowed scholarship for nursing. Helen Koebrick established the nursing scholarship at Morningside in 1992 in honor of nurses who provided Leon care when he became ill. Over the ensuing years, she contributed more than $600,000 to the nursing scholarship.
The couple farmed in the Charles City area and operated a turkey farm for many years. Helen was also a teacher who was known for her passion for education. The couple never attended Morningside, but began their relationship with the college after meeting former Morningside President Miles Tommeraasen.