Story by Emily Kebert

Photos provided by Cindy Roszell

When Cynthia “Cindy” Roszell arrived at the University of Missouri as a freshman, she already knew what she wanted to do.

She wanted to help students with disabilities develop their speech and language skills.

Her younger brother struggled with literacy at a time when dyslexia was rarely identified or understood. Watching him try to navigate school left a lasting impression. Cindy chose special education, determined to become the kind of teacher who could change a child’s trajectory.

More than 50 years after earning her degrees, a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1973 and a master’s degree in 1974, Cindy is ensuring that future educators have the same opportunity. Through the Cynthia A. and Stephen W. Roszell Endowed Scholarship, she is supporting master’s-level students pursuing special education in the College of Education & Human Development.

The scholarship reflects Cindy’s belief that education shapes futures and that financial barriers should not stand in the way of passionate teachers who want to serve students with diverse learning needs. “A good teacher can make all the difference for a child in school,” Cindy said. “Learning to read is the fundamental building block for a child’s success. It may not be financially possible to enroll in graduate school and learn how to teach students with special needs. That’s why I wanted to help.”

Rooted in Mizzou

Cindy and her late husband, Steve, who passed away in 2022, grew up in Illinois and met as high school sweethearts before attending Mizzou together. As undergraduates, they immersed themselves in campus life. Cindy was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta and served on the Homecoming Steering Committee, chairing the parade. Steve chaired Homecoming, was involved in student government and was tapped for QEBH, a senior honor society.

After graduating in 1971 with a degree in history and completing military service, Steve began his professional career with the Mizzou Alumni Association. He eventually served as executive director and helped launch the Alumni Association Student Board, strengthening connections between students and alumni. After more than a decade in higher education, he transitioned into executive positions at American Express, where he remained until his retirement in 2005.

Cindy carried her Mizzou education directly into the classroom. She began her career at Fulton Elementary, where she helped establish a speech pathology program just one year after graduation. Looking back, she says she “can’t believe it,” recalling that she was responsible for everything from purchasing materials to evaluating teachers. She later taught for two years at Blue Ridge Elementary, where she built lasting friendships with fellow teachers that continue today.

Together, Cindy and Steve’s lives reflect a long-standing commitment to leadership, service and education — values that now continue through this scholarship.

Educating future leaders in special education

Their daughter Kim pursued a master’s degree in education and now teaches students with neurodiverse needs — a reminder to Cindy of how powerful advanced training can be.

“I’ve seen firsthand how a qualified teacher can help students not only learn to read, but also succeed with their educational goals,” she said.

The Roszell Scholarship supports master’s students pursuing certification in special education, with particular attention to literacy and learning disabilities. By focusing on graduate-level preparation, the scholarship invests in educators who are deepening their expertise and expanding their ability to serve students in meaningful ways.

Lisa Goran, chair of the Department of Special Education, said the scholarship will have a lasting impact.

“Teachers who pursue advanced training in special education strengthen their ability to meet the needs of all learners,” Goran said. “Support like this allows them to focus on developing the skills and knowledge that directly benefit students and schools.”

A commitment that spans generations

For Cindy, establishing the scholarship is not about honoring the past. It is about building the future.

Her own education was made possible in part by financial support, and she understands how transformative that assistance can be. She hopes the Roszell Scholarship will help remove barriers for students who feel called to special education but need support to continue their studies.

“Education of our youth is fundamental to our future,” Cindy said. “We have to prepare them for success today.”

Through this gift, Cindy and Steve’s commitment to Mizzou and to education lives on — in classrooms, communities and in the next generation of special education leaders.

To learn more about scholarships and giving opportunities within the College of Education & Human Development, visit mizzou.us/cehdmgd.