At The University of Akron (UA), the impact of one man’s generosity is profoundly changing the lives of students, one scholarship at a time. Jimmy Malone, a Cleveland radio personality and dedicated philanthropist, has made it his mission to help aspiring college students in need through the Jimmy Malone Scholarship, established in partnership with College Now of Cleveland.
Malone’s passion for supporting students is evident not only in the financial aid he provides but also in the mentorship and community-building opportunities that come with it. Malone started the scholarship program in 1993 with his wife, April, and
daughter, Angela, and, over the years, more than 300 students have benefited from his scholarships, which can be used for tuition
or housing at Northeast Ohio universities.
Through the Jimmy Malone Scholarship, there are currently 25 UA students who not only receive the financial support they need, but also gain a mentor and a friend in Malone. The program includes an interview process and a unique personal connection, as Malone frequently meets with his scholarship recipients to offer guidance and encouragement.
Once enrolled at UA, many Malone Scholars participate in the College of Business Summer Leadership Academy. Overseen by Jeff Klemm, director of professional development and leadership initiatives, this residential program is designed to prepare first-generation college students for success in higher education the summer before their first year in college. The Academy helps students develop and hone leadership skills, better understand collegiate academics and immerse themselves in the vibrant campus experience at UA.
“Jimmy wants students to ensure that they’re making the right decisions,” Klemm notes. “He’s grown very fond of Akron as he sees the success of students and learns more about UA’s programs. The impact on students is life changing.”
The Malone Scholarship is about more than just financial support. It’s about creating a community where students can thrive, find their passions and build a network of support that lasts beyond their time at a university. Each year, the Malone Scholarship Golf Outing, now in its 28th year, raises funds to continue this legacy. The most recent outing, held this past July at Westfield Country Club, brought together sponsors, participants and scholarship recipients in a celebration of giving back.
One such recipient, Kayla Suansing ’26, a marketing major at UA and a graduate of Akron Public Schools, shared how the Malone Scholarship transformed her college experience. Initially considering other institutions, Suansing was introduced to UA by Malone, who arranged a campus tour for her. “This is a very personable scholarship program,” said Suansing. “Jimmy is a good listener and is willing to help his students find their way.”
Thanks to the Malone Scholarship, Suansing has been able to live on campus, enjoy a meal plan and even participate in a study trip abroad — all while staying debt-free. “I am so happy that I picked UA and met Jimmy,” Suansing reflects. “Not only will I graduate debt-free, but I was also able to have the experience of living on campus and connecting with the UA community.”
Malone’s commitment to his scholarship students extends beyond the financial realm. He regularly communicates with his scholars, meeting for breakfast, offering advice and ensuring they have the support they need to succeed. His vision is to continue expanding the scholarship program, with a goal of helping even more students become proud Zips.
“When my friend Kevin Smith introduced me to The University of Akron, I had no idea how awesome it was,” Malone said. “Once I learned, I was determined to help more students become Zips. My goal was 25, but I won’t stop there. I’ll continue to try to find more Zips.”
Story by Cristine Boyd
To learn more, visit jimmymalone.com
A well-known radio personality and stand-up comedian based in Cleveland, Malone is best known as longtime co-host of the morning show on WMJI radio alongside John Lanigan, with whom he won a 2005 Marconi Award for Large Market Personality. He gained notoriety for “Knuckleheads in the News,” reading headlines from the newspaper and commenting about some of the more outlandish stories.