Donor Biography
Mike Gardner was raised in Cedar City Utah. Mike's parents, Robert and LaRue, also grew up in Cedar City his dad was Robert L Gardner, an attorney in Cedar City who was very involved at SUU.
Diane grew up in Las Vegas then moved to Cedar City for High School. Diane was the daughter of Jack and Beverly Whiting and they both attended Southern Utah State College SUU in 1968 through 1970 and are SUU alumni.
Mike and Diane were married on Sept 12,1970 in the St. George Temple.
After graduation Mike went on to law School then moved to Las Vegas to start his practice. Diane became a nurse and enjoyed helping others.
Diane had a love for her family, dolls, music and Disneyland. Trips to Disneyland were a family tradition she shared with her grandchildren whom she loved and enjoyed. Their family has given generously to both SUU and the Utah Shakespearean festival. There is a room in the Hunter Conference center named in honor of their family. The Gardner Family has funded over six scholarships at SUU.
Diane died on Nov.11, 2015 after her third battle with cancer.
They had two children, a son and a daughter.
Scholarship Criteria
Awarded annually to two junior or senior students majoring in Nursing who have financial need and a minimum GPA of 3.2.