Recognizing the need for strong student writing, Roger and Joyce Howe have spent more than a decade helping countless Miamians develop clear and concise writing with the Howe Writing Initiative and the Howe Center for Writing Excellence.
Since 2005, the Howe Center has provided vital feedback and support to Miami students and faculty in their quest for effective writing. The Howes have committed more than $15 million over the years to this endeavor, including a recent $3 million gift designed to integrate the Howe Center’s efforts across campus. Thanks to Roger and Joyce, significant strides have been made to ensure all Miami students leave here with excellent writing skills and are recognized as exceptional writers by their employers and potential employers.
After purchasing U.S. Precision Lens in 1970, Roger built a small maker of plastic optics in Cincinnati into a world leader of innovation. In 1986, he sold the company to Corning Inc., remaining as chairman of the board until his retirement in 1997. Joyce graduated from Miami with honors as a fine arts major, and she has remained connected to the arts since. Specializing in watercolor, mixed media and oil painting, Joyce’s works have been sold in galleries in Ohio, Illinois, Michigan and Florida.
“Joyce and Roger Howe have contributed so much to the Miami community, and their benefit to Miami students and faculty will continue for generations through the Howe Writing Initiative and the Howe Center for Writing Excellence,” Miami President Greg Crawford said. “In addition to their phenomenal support of programs that have improved the quality of writing and scholarship at Miami, they have set an example for how each of us can strategically engage to make a positive impact on this great university.