Mellenger makes largest alumni gift commitment to NTID

Phoenix, Arizona, businessman and RIT/NTID alumnus Mark Mellenger has committed $1.5 million to establish The Mark Mellenger Endowed Scholarship Fund, with an additional $25,000  pledged to the college’s Sentinel Society. The commitment is the largest by a graduate in NTID history.

“College was a whirlwind of new experiences and challenges,” Mellenger said. “Unlike my younger days, where learning mostly happened in classrooms, college threw me into a world of independent study, acquired a new language - sign language, open debates, and figuring out who I wanted to be. The freedom was rewarding, but it also meant taking responsibility for my own success. I met people from all walks of life, each with their own stories and perspectives, which really broadened my horizons. It wasn't always easy, balancing academics with social life and everything else, but looking back, it was a time of incredible growth and self-discovery.”

Mellenger, a 1993 graduate of RIT’s hotel and business management program, has been involved in mentoring young deaf and hard-of-hearing students throughout his professional career, and finds the experience rewarding and inspiring.

“Seeing these students navigate their educational journeys, overcome challenges, and discover their potential has been a true privilege. It's been fulfilling to share my own experiences and offer guidance, while also learning so much from their resilience, creativity, and unique perspectives. These interactions have not only enriched their lives, but have also profoundly impacted my own, reinforcing the importance of accessible education and the power of mentorship.’

Mellenger has served as secretary for the DeafBlind Retreat of Arizona, and as treasurer and board member of for Northern California Association of DeafBlind. He continues to be a Support Service Provider (SSP) and Tactile Interpreter for the deafblind throughout locally and statewide.

“We are grateful to Mark for his history-making commitment to his alma mater,” said Gerry Buckley, NTID president and RIT vice president and dean. “It’s been a pleasure to see Mark’s dedication to our students and providing opportunities for them to grown and thrive.”

“As an NTID alumnus and donor, I hope my commitment will contribute to a vibrant and supportive learning environment for deaf students,” Mellenger said. “I envision my contributions helping to fund scholarships, provide access to cutting-edge technology and resources, and support vital programs that empower students to reach their full potential. Ultimately, I hope my involvement will help create pathways to success for future generations of deaf professionals, innovators, and leaders, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in a hearing world.”