Grace (Larsen) Sagendorf, born in March 1915 in Greenville, Michigan, was a woman who felt strongly about community. After graduating from Greenville High School, she pursued a degree in elementary education at Central Michigan University and later earned a Master’s from the University of Michigan. Grace’s early career led her to teach in Saginaw, Flint, and Dearborn, but she returned to Greenville in 1952 after marrying Marion Sagendorf. 

Back in her hometown, Grace was involved in the community- developing areas of interest that would later be reflected in her philanthropic gifts. Following Marion’s passing, Grace decided to honor his memory in a way that would make a lasting difference and established a scholarship fund in his name, opening doors to higher education for local students. Later, she created the Grace Sagendorf First Congregational Church Scholarship Fund, ensuring her church had ongoing resources. 

But it was through her final act that Grace truly reshaped the future of Greenville. In her estate, she left a $4 million gift to the Greenville Area Community Foundation (GACF)—an amount that, at the time, doubled the size of the foundation. This monumental gesture allowed the foundation to establish the Grace M. Sagendorf Education Fund and the Sagendorf Opportunities for Success Fund. The endowments have since multiplied in value and have provided millions in grants to support local education initiatives and basic needs for vulnerable students.  

Grace’s gift was more than just a financial contribution—it was a turning point. It transformed GACF’s capacity to serve its community and became a legacy that continues to impact generations of students, teachers, and the greater Greenville community.  

As GACF celebrates its 35th anniversary, we bring together the collective stories of donors, nonprofits, students, and community members to demonstrate the power of philanthropy in creating lasting impact and a stronger future.