EIU Receives Single Largest Gift in University History
Jan-28-2014
Eastern Illinois University has received the largest single gift in university history, according to Robert Martin, vice president for university advancement.
“We have received a $3.68 million gift from the estate of Paul L. Ward, former professor of educational psychology at EIU to provide scholarships for students majoring in counseling and student development,” Martin said.
The bequest -- given through the EIU Foundation -- creates an endowment that will fund scholarships for graduate students as endowment earnings accumulate.
“The dedication of our faculty at EIU runs deep,” said EIU President William L. Perry. “Professor Ward worked tirelessly in the classroom and gave his students individualized attention, but the creation of this legacy gift shows a commitment and generosity of spirit of the highest order.”
Perry’s predecessor -- retired president Lou Hencken -- said that he wasn’t surprised to learn that Ward had taken extra steps to benefit students into the future.
“I’m particularly pleased to learn of this gift from Paul and this is just like him to make this donation,” said Hencken. “Paul was a dedicated faculty member and this gift shows just how much he loved teaching and this university.”
Paul Ward taught at EIU from 1967 until his retirement in 1992.
“We are very appreciative and honored that Paul believed so much in the quality educational experience provided at EIU that he chose to leave his legacy to benefit our students,” Martin said.
“This is a great contribution to our program from an outstanding EIU professor and we’re proud to help continue his legacy.”
