Tim and Carolyn McGahan, along with Ladd and Leslie Tsukamoto, established this endowment in 2010 in loving memory of their son and son-in-law, 2Lt Michael E. McGahan. “Mike” who had recently married his Gator sweetheart Miranda McGahan (09), graduated from the University of Florida in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in political science and minor in history. Mike died in service to his country on June 6th 2010, the 66th anniversary of D-Day. As a member of the 101st Airborne, he joined many of our nations hero’s and his fellow Band of Brothers when he was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. Mike had a passion for history and international politics and relations. He felt that if they could, students should travel and study abroad to better their understanding of the world.

President Barack Obama mentioned Michael in his Memorial Day 2011 speech at Arlington National Cemetery.
Click here for President Barack Obama’s speech.