Gerard Circle Giving Story

Wayne and Joan Burk

In the realm of philanthropy, there are those whose impact spans their own lifetimes, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals. Wayne and Joan Burk stand tall as shining examples of such altruism, their unwavering commitment to education and healthcare evident through their longstanding support of the Erma Burk Scholarship at Allen College.

For nearly three decades, Wayne and Joan Burk’s generosity has enabled numerous students to fulfill their calling in healthcare. The Erma Burk Scholarship, established in honor of Wayne's mother, Erma Burk, has served as a bridge between ambition and achievement for countless young minds. Erma graduated from a nursing school in Black Hills, South Dakota.  She made her way to the Cedar Valley working at UNI in the Student Health Center before landing a job at Allen Hospital. She worked at Allen Hospital for 20 years and later worked for Drs. Bailey, Morrison and Basu. Erma lived on Hope Street near the hospital and walked to work; she frequently rented her upstairs to other nurses at the hospital whom she knew.  Erma embodied compassion, dedication and the spirit of service.

Wayne and Joan Burk's journey as philanthropists is a testament to the power of giving back. The ripple effect of their generosity extends beyond the scholarship recipients, touching the lives of patients, families and communities that benefit from the compassionate care provided by the nurses they've helped nurture.

The Burks' dedication for learning started when they first met and graduated from Buena Vista College, in Storm Lake, Iowa.  Wayne was in education for 43 years and Joan was an elementary teacher and special education teacher at the middle school level in northwest and southwest Iowa before moving their home to Independence.

In a world where challenges persist and the need for compassionate healthcare professionals remains paramount, Wayne and Joan Burk's story reminds us that every individual has the power to make a difference, and that a single act of kindness can set in motion a legacy that transcends time.