Former Illini Cheerleader Establishes Cheerleading Scholarship Fund
September 11, 2026 10:35 AM
Former University of Illinois cheerleader David A. Mizer has established the David A. Mizer Cheerleading Education Fund, creating a new scholarship opportunity for members of the Fighting Illini Cheerleading program and laying the foundation for a broader effort to engage former cheerleaders and supporters in investing in the future of the program. The inaugural recipient of the 2026 scholarship award is four‑year team member and 2026‑27 team captain, Lily Seifrid.
On December 25, 2025, Mizer was diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer. Since then, he has been focused on meaningful ways to leave a legacy to the people and groups that have meant the most to him. One of those groups is the Fighting Illini Cheerleading program.
Mizer has made an estimated $25,000 gift to the fund in his estate plan. The fund will provide educational support to members of the Illinois Cheerleading program who are in good academic standing, with preference given to rising seniors who demonstrate financial need and, secondarily, to returning members of the team who demonstrate financial need.
Ensuring opportunties to learn, grow, and succeed
September 09, 2026 11:42 AMFor Jack Blevins, giving back has never been about recognition. It is about ensuring future generations of Illinois engineers have the same opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed that shaped his own life.
