For more than three decades, Robert Morris University has been woven into nearly every chapter of Skip Homan’s life—as a leader, a parent, and a legacy donor.
“It was one way among others that I’ve expressed my commitment to RMU over the years,” Homan said. “I’ve been involved with Robert Morris now for 30 years. I was a trustee for 27 years and, now, I’ve been on the University Advisory Board for three years. It’s been one of the best experiences of my life, frankly.”
Throughout his years of service, Homan witnessed RMU’s growth firsthand, shaped by a deep respect for the people and values that define the institution.
“I really appreciated my time with RMU,” he said. “I feel like I’ve been able to make a contribution to the development and growth of the University, and I’ve learned so much from the people I’ve worked with and been associated with. I love learning, and I’ve had the opportunity to work with excellent university administrators and staff, great trustees and some of the best executives in Pittsburgh.”
What stands out most to Homan is not just RMU’s leadership, but its culture. “I love the culture of Robert Morris. I always have,” he said. “It’s one of friendliness, commitment, energy, and focus on the students. I’ve had the chance to meet and listen to students over the years, and I’ve always been impressed with them. We have great students, and we help them become well prepared to be effective family, community and company leaders.”
That belief became deeply personal when RMU became part of the Homan family’s story. His son, Courtney, attended RMU and graduated with a degree in business. “He was a very capable young man and ready to go to work and perform well,” Homan said. “I’ve always attributed a lot of that to the training and development he received at Robert Morris.”
Homan’s decision to include RMU in his estate plans ultimately comes down to gratitude—for opportunity, outcomes, and relationships. While Homan’s existing endowment has already made a lasting impact, he and his wife Nancy chose to expand that commitment. By weaving a legacy gift into his established fund, he is ensuring his support for RMU evolves alongside the university he has served for so long.
“My wife and I have been tremendously fortunate,” he said. “I’ve had good jobs with good companies and have been able to work with outstanding professionals. This is an opportunity to give back some of what I’ve been fortunate to earn over the years.”
He views legacy giving not only as philanthropy, but as stewardship—an investment in students and in RMU’s long-term future.
“I believe the university could really benefit from life gifts more than it has in the past,” Homan said. “I’m hopeful that my gift and sharing my story might help encourage others to consider legacy giving at RMU.”
His confidence in RMU’s role in the region remains strong. “RMU’s place in the community is well known,” he said. “Our graduates are deeply involved in Pittsburgh companies, and that creates goodwill and a strong image for the university throughout the region.”
At its core, Homan’s hope is simple: to serve others and help future students access the same opportunities that shaped his family’s journey. “I hope the gift will help students achieve what I’ve had the good fortune to achieve,” he said.
By planning a gift to Robert Morris University, Skip Homan is ensuring that future generations of students—many of whom simply need the right opportunity—will continue to find it at RMU. His legacy is measured not only by what he has given, but by what students will become because of it.