The Opal Dancey Memorial Foundation was formed in 1975 by Russell V. Dancey of Detroit, Michigan.  Russell and his wife, Opal, were childhood sweethearts in Effingham, Illinois. Russell became a successful businessman and found many ways to give back. Opal was a kind, generous, spunky lady who always made others feel important. She had a deep faith in God and loved being a part of a church community. She was a good wife, a great mother and an exceptionally wonderful grandmother.

Upon the death of Opal, Russell decided to create a lasting memorial in her name.  Since many of her ancestors had been ministers or missionaries, he felt that it would be appropriate to set up a foundation to provide assistance to seminary students who wanted to be pulpit ministers.

The response was overwhelming. Applications came from every part of the world. It far exceeded his expectations.

Russell first decided to limit applicants who came from the Great Lakes region.  In the second year, applicants from this region who had been accepted to seminaries from outside the Great Lakes were considered.  In the third year, applicants from outside the region who wanted to attend Great Lakes seminaries were added.

To date, there have been over 1500 seminarians who have benefited from Opal’s legacy.  The funds are given to the seminaries to disburse to the grantees.  The funds are to be used for tuition and unexpected expenses.