Rosann Gelvin Noel, a lifelong resident of Champaign and an alumna of the University of Illinois, left us suddenly and unexpectedly in the fall of 2018.
Rosann and her husband, Dick, married for nearly 65 years, actively engaged in many philanthropic endeavors. The couple's interest in the arts brought great joy to them, and they became devoted donors to arts-based organizations at Illinois, including Krannert Art Museum.
Rosann was a charter member of the Krannert Art Museum Council and served as president for a term. Her name will forever grace one of KAM's main level galleries, and for that we are eternally grateful. Numerous works of art have been accessioned into KAM's permanent collection due to the Noels' generosity and foresight in establishing the Richard M. and Rosann Gelvin Noel Krannert Art Museum Fund, which will keep both Dick and Rosann connected to the museum in perpetuity.
Rosann's love of gardening led her to also donate, with her brother Phil, the Gelvin Gardens in honor of their parents. These gardens at Krannert Art Museum's main entrance serve as a welcome "gallery" for visitors. With fellow KAM Council volunteers, Rosann worked in the gardens on many Thursday mornings, April through October, rain or shine.
While Rosann is no longer with us, her legacy remains and will always be front and center at Krannert Art Museum.
