Kathy’s husband John “Rollo” Shea began his 26-year career at Montana Tech in 1983 as a boiler operator, ultimately retiring as the Director of Physical Facilities in July of 2009.  Throughout his tenure at Tech, Rollo oversaw numerous renovations and new construction projects.  He viewed the campus as an extension of his own home and took immense pride in the appearance of the grounds and the smooth operation of all the facilities.   What Rollo was most proud of during his time at Tech, however, was completing the college education he had started back in the fall of 1963. He often shared his story with anyone willing to listen, especially those struggling with the idea of continuing or completing their education. Rollo would regularly say, “It took me 28 years to graduate from college… if I can do it, anyone can.” 

  

Both Kathy and Rollo were believers in not only the value of a college education, but the value of the education one could receive at Montana Tech.  They regularly encouraged and promoted the quality of education available right at home in uptown Butte, to anyone considering attending college.  This idea was passed along to their children Tara and Matt, both of whom are Montana Tech graduates.  There is now a third generation of Orediggers in the family with two of their grandchildren currently attending Montana Tech.  Kathy and Rollo are missed my many of the Oredigger faithful and noticeably absent from the bleachers of the HPER complex and Alumni Colosseum.  It is hoped this scholarship will continue to promote the value of the educational opportunities available right here in Butte and carry on Kathy and Rollo’s decades-long support of Montana Tech.