At the RISE Institute, we celebrate lives of faith, service, and love. We honor Gudrun Slaughter, whose journey reminds us of the power of compassion and unwavering faith.
Born in Bremerhaven, Germany, and later making her home in the U.S., Gudrun lived a life devoted to family, faith, and service. She excelled in her career as both a cytogeneticist and later in corporate accounting, yet her true calling was found in her love for the Lord and the people around her.
Her kindness knew no limits, her generosity carried no expectation, and her faith anchored all who knew her. Whether walking, biking, crocheting, or simply listening, Gudrun’s presence radiated humility and grace.
Her legacy is more than memory, it is a call to love unconditionally, give selflessly, and walk faithfully. At RISE, her life inspires us to keep building pathways that uplift others and strengthen communities.
The Slaughter Scholarship extends her legacy of faith, generosity, and love by supporting recent college graduates and young adults as they step into their futures. It creates pathways to employment, career training, and opportunity.
Through this gift, Gudrun’s spirit of compassion continues to open doors and uplift lives, reminding us that true legacy is measured not only in years lived, but in lives touched.
Scholarship applications open June 2026.
We couldn’t do this without you. Your support empowers our mission.