NWFSC scholarship endowed to honor Kay Litke

A seat at Kay Litke’s dinner table was a hot commodity as she and her three children traversed the globe during her husband’s, Major General (ret) Don Litke, 30-year career in the Air Force. Kay embodied grace and hospitality as their family personified the spirit of America on their many overseas tours. No matter what the assignment, she served as hostess to diplomats and airman across the globe.

As a way to honor Kay’s tremendous legacy, the Litke family established the Kay Litke Culinary Arts Scholarship Endowment with a $100,000 gift to the Northwest Florida State College Foundation. Kay was very active in a variety of ways at NWFSC. She and her husband endowed The Major General and Mrs. Donald P. Litke Scholarship 20 years ago, which continues to be awarded each year and has helped more than 25 students realize their educational dreams. The couple became friends and mentors to every recipient of the Litke’s scholarship.

“Mrs. Litke was a kind and caring woman who impacted the lives of many Northwest Florida State College students,” said Dr. Devin Stephenson, president of NWFSC. “Due to this generous gift from the Litke family, her legacy will continue to grow for generations to come.”

Kay was an active member of the Northwest Florida Symphony Guild and supporter of the NFSO, including the Conductor’s Circle and Kids at the Symphony. She was a member of the President’s Circle, a Signature Seat holder at the Arts Center, an active participant of the Raider Club, and a Raider Athletic fan. It is the family’s hope that this scholarship will allow deserving students to reach their potential in the field of culinary arts, a program that will start in fall 2018.