Suzanne Scott, a longtime UNMC supporter, died Monday at the age of 83.
Scott, wife of Walter Scott Jr., was known throughout the Omaha community for her philanthropic work.
At UNMC, the Scotts were principal donors on the Durham Research Center and the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center project, which led to naming the research tower the Suzanne and Walter Scott Cancer Research Tower.
“She was a marvelous woman who was known for her warmth and generosity to Nebraska and beyond, and her inclusiveness regardless of the individual’s station in life,” said UNMC Chancellor Harold M. Maurer, M.D. “Her volunteerism made a tremendous impact on our city. She made things happen.”
Dr. Maurer remembers Suzanne Scott on KETV.
UNMC isn’t the only place in Omaha to see Suzanne Scott’s name, either. The zoo, for one, features the Suzanne and Walter Scott Kingdoms of the Seas Aquarium.
The Omaha World-Herald on Suzanne Scott’s lasting legacy.
In 2002, the Scotts received the Chancellor’s Distinguished Service Award at the UNMC commencement. They served as honorary chairpersons for the 2004 Ambassador of Hope Gala.
She was active in other community organizations and affairs, chairing many civic events and serving on numerous non-profit guilds and boards, including:
- Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands.
- Children’s Hospital & Medical Center.
- Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Foundation.
- Goodwill Industries.
- Joslyn Art Museum.
- The Salvation Army Advisory Board.
- Board chair for Bellevue University.
- Board chair for United Way of the Midlands.
- Chaired Ak-Sar-Ben Women’s Ball Committee.
A Lincoln native, Scott graduated from Lincoln High School in 1948 and from the University of Nebraska in 1953. After working as an elementary school teacher, an administrative assistant, a paralegal and an entrepreneur, Scott became the founding executive director of the Omaha Zoo Foundation in 1984 — during her tenure, zoo memberships doubled.
She is survived by her husband, Walter Scott, Jr., and a brother, Dr. Dick Marshall of Lincoln. As well, Walter and Suzanne Scott have six children in their combined family; Dr. Bill Singer (Lynette) of Omaha, Dr. Bob Singer (Beth) of Nashville, Tennessee, Karen Dixon (Wes) of Kansas City, Sandy Parker (Dave) of Omaha, Amy Scott of Omaha, and David Scott (Lori) of Omaha, and seventeen grandchildren.
A private family service is planned. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Omaha Zoo Foundation.