Towson University has received a generous $100,000 gift from Patrick Brennan and his partner, Helga Maria Surratt, in support of the Cpl. Nicholas “Nick” Ziolkowski Memorial Scholarship, an endowment that honors a fallen U.S. Marine who planned to attend TU after his service and whose legacy continues to resonate across campus.

Brennan’s support for the scholarship fund is rooted in a personal connection. His son, Eric Brennan, grew up alongside Nick and his brothers, forming a close friendship that linked the families for decades. Brennan recalls a brief but memorable encounter with Nick when he was home on military leave—an exchange that left a lifelong impression.

“Nick’s professionalism and strong commitment to the military made a profound and lasting impression on me,” Brennan shares. “It is that impression that has inspired me to support Nick’s scholarship fund over the years and to make this donation.”

Ziolkowski was killed in Fallujah, Iraq, in 2004. His mother, longtime TU staff member Tracy Miller, later became a champion for veteran and military-connected students, helping re-establish the university’s Military and Veterans Center in his honor.

“Nick and his legacy were identified as an early priority,” says Brennan. “Helga and I are honored to be able to support the scholarship fund.”

Their gift deepens the long-standing connection between the Brennan family, the Ziolkowski family and Towson University—ensuring that Nick’s legacy continues to inspire and uplift TU students for generations to come.

Join Patrick and Helga by purchasing a ticket to watch the Super Bowl this Sunday, Feb. 8, to raise money to support the Nick Ziolkowski Scholarship Endowment and the Military and Veterans Center at Towson University. Learn more about the event.