Walter and Marian English Foundation

The English Family (Four Generations)

Background

The Walter and Marian English Foundation continues more than four decades of the family’s involvement with The Columbus Foundation. Their philosophy of giving was simple: give to others so they may share in your good fortune. Today, the daughters of Walter and Marian English, Ellen Julian and Polly Lassettre, continue the family’s tradition of giving, and serve as foundation trustees. Much of the foundation’s grantmaking reflects the family’s interest in education and science.
Over the years, Mr. and Mrs. English provided support for the community through the following Columbus Foundation funds: W&M.E. Fund, Walter English Company Fund, Walter and Marian English–Ohio Northern University Fund, Walter and Marian English Scholarship Fund for the Methodist Theological School in Ohio, and the COSI NewSpace Fund, a $3 million endowment that helped secure the future success of COSI. Born and raised in Columbus, Mr. English was a graduate of East High School and The Ohio State University. He spent his entire business career in the field of wholesale food distribution. He started the Walter English Company in the attic of his parents’ home on Bryden Road when he was 19 years old. The company grew steadily and eventually Mr. English purchased the home and converted it into his office. He operated the company for more than 60 years, retiring in 1991. Mrs. English, also a graduate of The Ohio State University, shared her husband’s interests. She died in 1987 and Mr. English died in 1998.

Mr. English was active in many central Ohio organizations. His best-known project was COSI. He was named COSI’s first president in 1964, serving for 19 years. His support of the former Community Chest helped that organization grow into today’s United Way of Central Ohio. Ohio Northern University, located in Ada, Ohio, was another interest. Mr. English served on the board of trustees for many years, first as a member and then as chairman. Mr. English was also a member of the Bexley Board of Education for 20 years, serving as president for several terms.

The Walter & Marian English Awards

Established by Walter English in 1976, The Walter & Marian English Awards recognize the efforts of United Way agency volunteers, support staff, and professional staff members who excel and are eager to continue to grow professionally.  Over $1 million has been awarded since the creation of the program. 

The Awards are presented annually by the Walter and Marian English Foundation.  In 2007, staff from the following nonprofit organizations received Walter & Marian English Awards, which allowed them to pursue professional development experiences:

• Columbus Speech & Hearing Center
• Godman Guild LifeCare Alliance
• The Salvation Army
• South Side Settlement
• YMCA of Central Ohio
  
  

Grantmaking

Board

Ellen English Julian, president; Polly English Lassettre, vice president; Duane M. Campbell, vice president; Floradelle A. Pfahl, secretary; and Robert J. Weiler, Jr.

Staff Contact

Interested in more information about the Walter and Marian English Foundation? Contact Tami Durrence by e-mail or at 614/251-4000.