The two of them were able to ignite the flame of curiosity in an incalculable number of students through the passion of their teaching and the depth of their caring. They believed in shaping lives and serving others.

Arthur Fulton Coss, who passed away in 2002 at the age of 83, accomplished both as head of the Auburn's former Department of Elementary Education for 20 years. Ruth Jarvis Coss, who passed in 2007 at 86, did the same while volunteering with the Lee County Literacy Coalition  and in local schools.

Arthur and Ruth Coss' generosity will continue to make a difference in the lives of students. Through a planned gift to the Auburn University Foundation, the couple funded a permanent endowment that will provide graduate awards for students in the College of Education. The Coss estate provided for more than $286,000 in scholarship money.

Dr. Kenneth Cadenhead '64, a former faculty member in the college's Department of Curriculum and Teaching who retired in 1992, served as executor of the Coss estate.

The Arthur and Ruth Coss Graduate Scholarship Fund will provide support for select students who are pursuing either a master's degree or doctorate in elementary education. According to the graduate award guidelines, award recipients must demonstrate "a commitment to teaching, learning and student success,'' as well as "leadership ability and a concern for the welfare of children.''

The first Arthur and Ruth Coss Scholar will be selected during the 2009-10 academic year.

Arthur Coss, a native of Paw Paw, Ill., came to Auburn University in 1962 after teaching at the University of Mississippi. He earned his bachelor's degree from Northern Illinois University, his master's degree from Northwestern and his doctorate from Indiana University. He held teaching and administrative positions in Illinois and Indiana public schools before transitioning into both roles in higher education.

A combat infantryman during World War II, Coss received the Bronze Star, awarded to soldiers for bravery and meritorious service.

Ruth Coss, a native of Rhinelander, Wisc., earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education and music from Wisconsin State College and a master's degree from Indiana University. She taught in public schools in Wisconsin and Illinois, as well as in Caracas, Venezuela, and Frankfurt, Germany.