EKU Foundation Report 2022

CONTRIBUTORS

Photographers

Carsen Bryant

Christina Young Photography

Danielle Smith Photography

EKU Athletics

Indigo Photography

V Rime Page Photography

Writers

Jerry Wallace

Elise Russell

Krista Rhodus

Ashley Thacker

Graphic Designer

Melissa Abney

Office of University Development and Alumni Engagement

(859) 622-GIVE | giving@eku.edu

Coates CPO 19A 521 Lancaster Avenue Richmond, KY 40475

Dear Friends,

It is with a heavy, yet happy heart that we recently announced the upcoming retirement of our friend Betina Gardner. As you’ve come to know Betina over the past few years in her role as vice president for university development and alumni engagement, you have likely witnessed her unique skill set and deep love for our university and our amazing students. She has proudly served in a variety of leadership capacities throughout her 28-year career at Eastern Kentucky University. I know we will all miss Betina’s contagious smile and personality, and I hope you will join me in wishing her the best.

Last year, we closed out the largest fundraising initiative in EKU’s history, the Make No Little Plans campaign. Even amidst the challenges brought about by a pandemic, our Colonel community shined. Because of your support, the campaign finished at more than $11 million above the $50-million goal. This is an incredible accomplishment and one that showcases Betina’s innovative style, the hard work of our development and alumni team, and the commitment of our generous donors. Thank you for making EKU history through this ambitious campaign!

Because of the Make No Little Plans campaign, more students can pursue higher education with increased scholarship opportunities. Students participate in more meaningful learning experiences because of support for academic excellence. Additionally, EKU students enjoy a more engaging on-campus experience because of investments in campus revitalization.

As you read through the 2022 Foundation Report, you’ll see the direct impact of donor support and the difference it makes in the lives of EKU students. An unprecedented 2,051 scholarships helped students achieve their higher education goals, gain invaluable work experience through internships, and fully participate in professional and campus organizations.

Also, in 2022, we had yet another record-breaking Giving Day, surpassing the goal of 2,022 donors in 24 hours. Giving Day is one of my favorite times of the year. It’s truly inspiring to see the Colonel pride as our EKU community comes together in such an impactful way.

As we are now well into 2023, I want you to know how much we appreciate you. It is only with your help that we continue to break barriers at EKU and support our students who hold such great potential. Thank you for investing in Eastern Kentucky University.

One Eastern, David T. McFaddin, Ed. D. President, Eastern Kentucky University

634 DONORS | $ 5,045,226

The President’s Circle celebrates those dedicated alumni and friends who demonstrate their support of EKU’s mission and vision through leadership-level annual gifts of $1,000 or more.

Dear Colonel Community,

At the beginning of my term as chair of the Eastern Kentucky University Foundation Board, we reached our largest philanthropic goal in the history of EKU and I challenged you to shatter it, to set a new standard. You did not disappoint. Not only did we conclude the 2022 academic year by making history with the Make No Little Plans campaign achievement of $50 million, but we exceeded our stretch goal for a staggering total of just over $61 million. Those dollars translate to more future students learning to succeed, more alumni sharing their successes, and more friends investing in a cycle of excellence.

As you scan this report, you will see a few of the many faces that contributed to student success, academic excellence, and campus revitalization, the three pillars of the Make No Little Plans campaign. You can walk through the numbers of the campaign, including the last fiscal year, to see who gave, where they gave, and how those gifts are making a difference to students. Whether supporting academic programs, general funds, or giving directly to scholarships, any gift equates to student impact.

Though this is my last term as chair, I am proud of the increasingly active role the Foundation Board has played at the University. We not only serve as the functioning unit charged with the fiduciary responsibility of the EKU Foundation, but we support the University’s mission through

our sponsored scholarships and various funds. For the past two years, one hundred percent of the Foundation Board has given to EKU. We believe in higher education and the right of every individual to have the opportunity to learn, to better themselves. We are confident that each employee is focused on student success and meeting our student population where they are. Most importantly, we know there is no better investment than that of a brighter future.

Thank you for your help in cultivating a philanthropic culture and creating an even higher standard at EKU. In the new year, I encourage you to not only give monetary contributions, but to donate your time and talents, as well. See our campus revitalization efforts in action by visiting Campus Beautiful. Together, we will continue to blaze a trail of opportunity and access for generations to come.

Sincerely,

Troy Ellis

Troy Ellis, ’87 Foundation Board Chair

FISCAL YEAR-END DATA SUMMARY

14,324

STUDENTS ENROLLED

3,554 DEGREES CONFERRED

3 . 42 AVERAGE STUDENT GPA

STUDENT SNAPSHOT

DEGREES AWARDED TO UNDERREPRESENTED MINORITIES INCREASED BY 12%

TOP DEGREES AWARDED:

OCCUPATIONAL SCIENCE, SOCIAL WORK, CRIMINAL JUSTICE, NURSING

EKU’S CLASS OF 2022 HAILED FROM

12 COUNTRIES, 46 STATES AND 104 KENTUCKY COUNTIES

THEY RANGED IN AGE FROM 18-79

FIRST-YEAR STUDENT ENROLLMENT INCREASED BY 9% TO 2,765

36%

62% OF STUDENTS WERE THE FIRST IN THEIR FAMILY TO OBTAIN A COLLEGE DEGREE.

OF BACHELOR’S DEGREE GRADUATES ARE EMPLOYED IN KENTUCKY

2021-22

FROM 2021-2022

The Milestone Society celebrates those dedicated alumni and friends who demonstrate their support of EKU’s mission and vision through two or more consecutive annual gifts.

3,105 MEMBERS

Campaign Success Summary

MAKE NO LITTLE PLANS: THE CAMPAIGN FOR EKU FY 2015 – 2022 TOTAL GIFTS

TOTAL: $61,016,925

These amounts include cash, new pledges, and planned gifts.

The leader behind the success is philanthropist and Campaign Chair Maribeth McBride Berman, ’92. A love for EKU and a professional background in higher education fueled her passion for creating a culture of philanthropy at her alma mater.

“I never dreamed of being this involved,” Berman said. “But then it just became a natural fit.”

Years ago, when asked to chair the campaign, “I said, ‘If we’re going to do this, we’re going to do it right.’ I wanted a really high level of professionalism and transition to a more philanthropic base.”

During the campaign, Maribeth and her husband, Louis, continued to lead and build the philanthropic base with hundreds of volunteer hours and support for every aspect of the campaign, including annual, planned and major gifts totaling more than $4 million.

“Maribeth helped set a new standard of excellence at EKU,” said Associate Vice President of Development and Campaign Manager Melissa Grinstead. “You could feel the energy and pride at both our campaign launch and closing celebration events.”

Grinstead continued, “With Maribeth’s leadership and as a result of this historic campaign, we have transformed our campus and students’ lives with the gift of education.”

MAKE NO LITTLE PLANS

It officially started in 2015. Momentum was built, milestones were reached and new initiatives generated excitement along the way. More than $60 million, 10,000 donors, and seven years later, EKU’s largest comprehensive campaign ‒Make No Little Plans ‒ finished over $10 million above its ambitious $50-million goal.

The campaign centered around three main pillars: academic excellence, student success and campus revitalization.

“In the beginning, we focused on making this a beautiful place to live and learn,” Berman said.

Geared toward the physical student experience, campus revitalization efforts included new residence halls and parking structures, a new recreation center and dining hall, the renovated student center and more. Donor-funded spaces and programs include, among other campus projects, the addition of the Noel Reading Porch to the EKU Library; an addition and major renovation of the Jack Ison Sports Performance Center; the Chellgren Success Series as part of the Student Success Center; and the Berman Center for Professional Sales — established by Berman and husband, Louis.

“Once campus started to look more appealing to prospective students, we then became more focused on academics, programs and student scholarships,” Berman commented. “More students are now receiving scholarships because of this campaign and because of the generosity of our donors.”

Among the many highlights of the campaign, Berman really enjoyed seeing her peers on the Foundation Board find their own passions and make their gifts to the campaign. She and Louis led the way with a transformational gift during the campaign to match their personal passions.

“It was exciting when Louis and I made our gift to establish the sales program,” Berman said. As a result of the Berman Center for Professional Sales, students at EKU have the opportunity to pursue a certificate or minor in sales.

Other memorable moments of the campaign for Berman were unexpected gifts, like from Karen Hawkins, who left the largest single gift in EKU’s history. Planned and estate gifts, such as the bequest from Hawkins, made up approximately 40 percent of the campaign.

Just as important as the many large campaign and planned gifts were the annual giving donors and initiatives throughout the campaign. The Milestone Society, created in 2020, recognizes the loyal donors who give to EKU every year.

“My annual impact is incremental in that I am part of an association of people who are passionate about an institution and want to give back to a university that had a profound impact on their life,” said Robert Garver, ’70, who’s been giving annually for more than 50 years. “To be an original member of the Milestone Society was very rewarding — not only as a member but also being part of a tradition that will hopefully inspire others to become a part of the same tradition.”

The campaign also marked the beginning of a new Colonel tradition. Giving Day, started in 2019, takes place every spring and aims to achieve a certain number of donors within a 24-hour time period. The number of donors on Giving Day has increased each year.

“Every gift matters,” said Krista Rhodus, director of annual giving. “Together, these annual gifts not only add up to a substantial amount to support students and opportunity at EKU, but they also build momentum and energy among alumni and our giving community.”

Despite fundraising challenges as a result of the pandemic, the Colonel community responded with an outpouring of support. Immediately, the Student Assistance Fund for Eastern (SAFE) was established in 2020 to help students with unexpected needs. By the end of fiscal year 2021, EKU had marked a record-breaking year of giving across several different measures. Reflecting on the success of the campaign, she said, “For me, the pride is the lasting impact on our students, who will continue to benefit from this campaign for generations to come.”

Vice President for Development and Alumni Engagement Betina Gardner added, “We are overwhelmed with gratitude for our generous EKU community and excited to see the perpetual impact and engagement of donors as a result of the Make No Little Plans campaign.”

TIMELINE OF EVENTS

11,694

TOTAL FIRST-TIME DONORS

14,689 TOTAL FRIENDS 921 CORPORATIONS

FACULTY AND STAFF GIVING INCREASED

DONOR SNAPSHOT

27,699

TOTAL DONORS

209% DURING THE CAMPAIGN

55 NEW PLANNED GIFTS

11,754 TOTAL ALUMNI DONORS

WHERE HAVE YOU GIVEN: CAMPAIGN SUMMARY OF GIVING AREAS

OUTRIGHT GIFTS $31,294,320

PLEDGES $4,155,140

PLANNED GIFTS $25,567,465

■ Student Support ■ Faculty Support ■ Library

■ Academic Divisions

■ Athletics

■ Capital/Operations/Maintenance/Public Service

■ Other Restricted

■ Unrestricted

Student Success

$20,000,000

RAISED DURING THE CAMPAIGN

58% OF NEW FUNDS ESTABLISHED WERE DEDICATED TO STUDENT SUPPORT

ONE-THIRD OF ALL CAMPAIGN COMMITMENTS GIVEN TO STUDENT SUPPORT

11,573 SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED DURING THE CAMPAIGN

Academic Excellence

GRADUATE SCHOOL $36,858

COLLEGE OF JUSTICE, SAFETY AND MILITARY SCIENCE

$387,560

COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES $2,279,912

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND APPLIED HUMAN SCIENCES

$2,115,693

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS

$2,887,695

CREATED DURING THE CAMPAIGN

COLLEGE OF LETTERS, ARTS, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

$3,154,506

COLLEGE OF STEM

$3,541,088

GENERAL SCHOLARSHIPS AND OTHER CAMPUS UNITS

$42,465,198

Campus Revitalization Projects

2017 2016

NOEL READING PORCH

The Noel Reading Porch, funded through the generosity of Sherrie Lou and the late Ron Noel, has become a hot-spot for students seeking a peaceful study space in the fresh open air.

TURNER GATE

Gifted by former Board of Regents Chair Craig Turner and his wife Madonna, the Turner Gate structure is inscribed with four powerful words: Wisdom, Knowledge, Purpose, and Passion.

2020

JACK ISON SPORTS PERFORMANCE CENTER

With the support of Life Fitness and a private gift by Ron and Sherrie Lou Noel, the dramatically expanded and renovated first-class facility serves all 16 varsity sports and more than 300 student-athletes.

2022

CARLOFTIS GARDEN NORTHCUTT FOUNTAIN

The Carloftis Garden features twin fountains, one of which was donated by EKU alum Scott Northcutt to honor his wife, Anne, also an Eastern grad. The couple met on the Richmond campus in the 1980s.

STAINED GLASS WINDOW

The EKU stained glass window, a gift from the Gamma Theta chapter of Chi Omega, is a beautiful addition to the Powell Student Center.

THE CORNER

The Corner outside of the Powell Building has a fresh new look thanks to the contributions of alumni Mike Conway and Tim McCubbin. Extensive lighting, thoughtful landscaping, and dedication plaques have given this favorite gathering place revived life.

Thank You!

THE ALLGIER FAMILY Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Three alumni. Four degrees. Approximately 75 years of service as employees. Organizational involvement. Countless sporting events, Homecomings and other campus activities.

EKU has long been an integral part of the Allgier family – parents David and Jill, and daughters Abby Horn and Allison Allgier. “To say that Eastern means a lot to our family is an understatement,” declared Abby, a two-time EKU graduate, University employee since 1996 and currently an IT programmer/analyst. “We have a very strong affinity for the University. It’s been about living, working, educating and wanting to be a part of EKU for 40-plus years now.”

But it’s not just about the past for the Allgiers. The family will be fondly remembered for generations to come at EKU, thanks to the establishment of the David Allgier Endowed Scholarship for graduate students in occupational therapy. Allison earned a bachelor’s degree in OT from Eastern in 1992 and serves today as clinical program manager for the Brachial Plexus Center at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.

David, who passed away in 2014, served as director of information technology at Eastern for more than 20 years, capably steering the campus community through rapid technological change and endearing himself to colleagues with his know-how and playful sense of humor before retiring in 2003.

“After Dad passed away, Abby suggested establishing a scholarship in his name, so I moved forward to endow the scholarship,” explained Allison, who received a Distinguished Service Award from the University’s International Alumni Association in 2017. “We talked with Mom and decided that it should support graduate occupational therapy students during their fieldwork placements. We all remembered the support Dad and Mom provided me throughout the required six months of unpaid clinical internships while still paying tuition and managing daily living expenses as well. We were hoping this additional avenue of support would positively impact OT students during a critical time in their education. All three of us continue to donate annually to help increase the amount awarded, and we encourage others to participate as well.”

Jill, who earned a master’s degree from Eastern during the daughters’ teen years, joined the Eastern staff in 1981 and served as registrar for 16 years before retiring in 2006. Respected as a consummate professional, she became the first individual on campus to receive staff emeritus honors.

“EKU was a delightful place to work as it brought so many new friends into our lives,” Jill said. “We played cards, had social events and generally found friends within the EKU family across the entire campus. The University became an important part of our lives and, for me, still allows many activities with fellow retirees. This scholarship allows David’s memory to stay alive on campus and honors his many years of dedication as an EKU administrator.”

Noting that each member of the Allgier family “had our own personal EKU experience, whether it be through work, campus involvement, alumni involvement, or the retirees’ group for Mom,” Allison said: “We want to give back to this institution that has positively impacted our family throughout the past 40 years. This includes supporting students through their own unique experience as well.”

LEAH GOODMAN Service and Philanthropy

Oftentimes, those that forge the clearest path forward are those that fully embrace where they have been. Leah Goodman grew up on her family farm in Todd County, Kentucky. While the farm instilled a strong work ethic, its laborious nature led many farmers to suffer agricultural-related injuries that left them unable to participate in necessary daily activities.

“This experience led me to pursue a degree in which I can help people regain the function needed to maximize their occupational performance,“ Goodman said. The educational pursuit guided her through EKU’s doors and into the classrooms of Occupational Therapy.

Goodman added, “Eastern quickly began to feel like home. It’s that southern hospitality conveyed through the people and places at EKU that I love most.”

She is expected to graduate with her MS in Occupational Therapy in the summer, following the completion of her six-month unpaid clinical fieldwork. As the recipient of the David Allgier Endowed Scholarship, Goodman’s lessened financial burden during fieldwork will allow her to dedicate more time to her passion of helping others. She acknowledged the generosity, as well as the sum of her Eastern Experience and future plans to perpetuate the philanthropy in a quote, “As a six-year student and employee of EKU myself, I understand what a special place the University is and the instilled desire for service and philanthropy.”

Pictured left to right: Abby Allgier Horn, Jill Allgier, Allison Allgier

DON STEELE An Incredible Gift

Neither of Don Steele’s parents graduated from high school, but they raised their only child with the “implicit understanding” that he would pursue a college degree.

So, the first-generation student enrolled at Eastern as a chemistry major, financing his first three years through full-time summer jobs in a Cincinnati meat-packing plant, living at home those summers. When the opportunity arose to take a chemistry research class under Dr. John Meisenheimer the summer before his senior year, his parents agreed to cover his remaining classes.

Mr. Steele’s father passed away a year later, but not before the new graduate heard the pride in his voice when he exclaimed, “My son is a chemist!”

Recalling his parents’ clearly and consistently communicated high expectations as “an incredible gift to give a child who is struggling to find their way,” Mr. Steele established the Richard and Mary Steele Memorial Endowed Scholarship by initial direct donation. He has also named EKU as the beneficiary of an IRA. “I wanted to do something special to recognize them, so endowing a perpetual scholarship in their names seemed to be the right thing to do.”

Now retired, Mr. Steele began his career as a general manager/ quality assurance director in the beef slaughter and processing industry, then served as laboratory director for two environmentally oriented analytical laboratories, and culminated his career as an environmental specialist with the Florida Department of Health/ Environmental Health Services.

“I hope future Kentucky kids who wish to pursue a chemistry degree will be able to recognize my parents for providing a little help,” Mr. Steele said. “It’s a blessing to me that I’m able to facilitate this, and a comfort to know that my parents, who never attended college, will be remembered on the EKU campus forever.”

| student success

JESSICA KWAKYE Knowledge is Power

“Knowledge is power.” From the time she was small, Jessica Kwakye’s mother instilled that simple, but driving motto. Kwakye will graduate in May of this year with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and attributes much of her success to her mother by saying, “With the support of my Ghanaian mother who came to America to grant me a better educational opportunity, I knew one day all things would be possible.”

Kwakye has taken full advantage of the School of Opportunity not only through her studies and scholarships, but through student experiences. She is president of the African Student Association and leads initiatives through the Center for Inclusive Excellence and Global Engagement (CIEGE), crediting the faculty’s love and dedication for students as contributors of success.

When asked what success meant to her, Kwakye said, “To me, success is the ability to strive for excellence and achieve my goals. I am proud of my journey and excited for pharmacy school, a huge accomplishment not just for a college student, but a first-generation African American student.”

“Do A Good Turn Daily”

JOE DAVID MARTIN

As a math teacher and then guidance counselor at Tates Creek High School in Lexington, Alice Faye Carter Martin was known as softspoken but an attentive listener who was passionate about the growth and success of her students.

She passed away in 2003 after a courageous 31-year struggle with multiple sclerosis, but her devoted husband, Joe David Martin, found a fitting way to honor her memory and ensure that her legacy speaks volumes to future generations of EKU students. In 2006, he established the Alice Fay Carter Martin Endowed Scholarship to support deserving graduates of Tates Creek as well as public high schools in Knott and Floyd counties in eastern Kentucky, from where the Martins hailed. His generous support also funded the Martin Endowed Graduate Education Scholarship to support students pursuing graduate degrees in the University’s College of Education and Applied Human Sciences.

Ms. Martin, from a family of many educators, grew up in Mousie and earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Eastern. Mr. Martin, a native of Allen whose parents stressed the value of

education, went on to earn his master’s and Rank I from Eastern before embarking on a career as teacher, principal and administrator with Fayette County Schools.

“It was a good educational institution, particularly for kids from central and eastern Kentucky,” Mr. Martin said of the time the two shared on the Richmond campus. “We were in familiar territory. It felt like we were at home. I’m happy to have been successful enough to be able to provide some help to another generation.”

Besides wanting to honor his wife, Mr. Martin’s desire to help others also stems from his years as an Eagle Scout, when he took to heart the Scouts’ motto, “Do A Good Turn Daily.”

“So,” he said, “I tried to do that.”

Joe David Martin pictured with photo of late wife, Alice Faye Carter Martin

A Heart for Helping Others

KAMILAH RAGLAND

Kamilah Ragland has a heart for helping others. Ragland graduated Tates Creek High School with honors. Among other associations, Ragland was a member of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA); Beta Club; National Honor Society; and student council. More impressively, Ragland created emergency kits for those that were homeless and helped raise money to purchase school supplies for those unable to buy their own. One of Ragland’s educators expressed, “Kamilah values finishing a job to its fullest potential whether it is in school, her many extracurricular activities, or helping out at home with her sibling.”

As the big sister to a brother with special needs, Ragland has an affinity for helping children. She hopes to combine her compassion for others with her love of science to eventually become a pediatrician and with the help of the Alice Faye Martin Endowed Scholarship is helping her, she is well on her way to achieving her dream. In the meantime, she is forming meaningful friendships with potential future colleagues in the Health Living Learning Community, gaining valuable work experience as a student employee on campus, and building a strong educational foundation through her classes.

JANE VIOLETTE SCHLATER Coming Full Circle

Jane nor anyone in her family ever attended EKU and the interior designer had never seen the Richmond campus until September 2021.

Jane vividly recalls visits in the 1960’s to Appalachian Kentucky on behalf of her Louisville high school’s student council. The classmates traveled the winding mountain roads to deliver boxes of staples with a turkey for major holidays. The recipients were identified by an agency in Frankfort and the grateful families welcomed the students into their homes.

Years later, her Florida book club listed Kentucky author Kim Michele Richardson’s best-selling 2019 historical novel, The Bookwoman of Troublesome Creek, as a monthly selection. Kirkus Reviews described the book as “a unique story about Appalachia and the healing power of the written word.”

Jane’s youth experiences and the book prompted her to begin researching how she could help high school graduates in eastern Kentucky. She learned of EKU and cold-called the University Development Office to schedule a campus visit. President David McFaddin and Betina Gardner, vice president for development and alumni engagement, welcomed her and included an introductory tour. “The University is so focused on the needs of the students and the campus is beautiful,” she said. “If young persons are given an opportunity, EKU can help them achieve their goals. Every night before I went to sleep, my parents taught me to set at least one goal for the following day. The next evening, my goal and the results were discussed at the dinner table. I continue to practice that regimen every day.”

In 2022, Jane established five scholarships that correspond with her interests, family members, and honoring her closest friend since seventh grade. The gifts enabled scholarships in business, music, nursing, art and education. In addition, Jane added a fund that benefits the campus community. “The buildings are treasures and I want the interior design to complement the architecture creating a beautiful and stimulating location to learn.” Jane’s Beautification fund has helped to enhance common spaces, Deans’ offices, reception areas, focal points for building entries, and student areas of EKU. Art preserved in EKU Special Collections & Archives has been used in high profile venues. New upholstery, furniture, rugs, art, Kentucky furniture, European pieces, and generous donations from her friends and alumni contributed to the integrity of the buildings. “I believe in giving back to my state and I am thrilled to have come full circle and to have found EKU to help me accomplish some of my goals.”

A Natural Musician

GABRIEL PORTER

“I feel lucky to have him in my EKU horn studio,” a professor said of Gabe Porter, ’23.

Hailing from Grayson, Kentucky, Porter is a natural musician and dedicated student. Even in high school, he committed his time and energy to music—from Foster Music Camp to EKU Honors Band—Porter’s musical dreams have become reality. Porter stated, “What really changed my life dramatically was attending Foster Music Camp at Eastern Kentucky University, and that is what led me to study music at EKU.”

While at Eastern, Porter has participated in EKU Marching Colonels and EKU Pep Band. His talent and organizational skills have made it possible for him to maintain an intense schedule of musical extracurriculars while also excelling academically.

This year, Porter is a recipient of the Dorothy Marie Kuhl Violette Music Scholarship, provided through the generosity of Jane Violette Schlater to support a junior or senior pursuing a degree in music. He is a worthy recipient, as he serves as principal horn in the EKU Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, a singer with the University Singers, as well as a member of several chamber ensembles.

“From here, I plan to attend The University of Michigan for a Masters in Horn Performance with a focus on conducting, and then go on to a DMA program. I aspire to teach horn at the collegiate level and run a private studio which will provide opportunities to socioeconomically disadvantaged students so that they can get the formal training necessary to excel in this field without having to figure it all out themselves.”

LEWIS DIAZ Improving the Human Condition

As a standout offensive lineman for the Colonels 1997-2000, it was Lewis Diaz’s job to open running and passing lanes for his teammates.

As a successful attorney, community leader and former chair of the EKU Board of Regents, Mr. Diaz is still clearing the path for others, now to help them achieve their educational and career goals. In 2021, Diaz, a partner with Dinsmore and Shohl LLP, a national law firm headquartered in Cincinnati, established and funded the Pre-Law Academic Assistance Fund for Diverse Students (the Dinsmore Fund).

“Our firm’s ambition is to remove barriers for low-income and minority students to accessing a legal education,” said Mr. Diaz, a native of Cuba who grew up in south Florida. “My hope is that the fund is used to cover those soft costs associated with pursuing a legal education – travel, applications, clothing, LSAT test preparation, etcetera. The funding complements the mentorship that Dinsmore’s Lexington office has undertaken to provide, and is intended to give low-income and minority students at EKU better access to law school and the legal profession.”

Mr. Diaz, an EKU Regent 2016-22 and chair the last three-plus years, also serves on the Board of Directors of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati, the Board of Directors of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport and the Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission. “Professionally and in my board service, I focus on and gravitate toward housing, health care and education. Those are the three pillars to improving the human condition, and it’s where I find intrinsic passion.”

Mr. Diaz fondly recalls EKU faculty and staff who “invested in me and fostered the academic growth that propelled me to law school. I am very confident that students are receiving similar support today, but despite EKU’s quality service, there are subsidy gaps that prevent students from achieving their maximum potential. The Dinsmore Scholarship helps fill those gaps”

RYLEE MEACHUM A Pivotal Experience

Driven, intelligent, and engaging are a few of the top adjectives used to describe senior Rylee Meachum. Originally from Harlan, Kentucky, Meachum chose Eastern Kentucky University due to its proximity to home, but quickly became immersed in the full student experience. She is actively involved in the EKU Marketing Club and New Member Philanthropy service for her sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi. She pioneered the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion position on the Panhellenic Council and earned the IAMEKU award in the Greek community.

It comes as no surprise that Meachum also excels in the classroom and is the recipient of multiple scholarships. One of her professors raved about Meachum, saying, “She is one of the very best students I have known in my time at Eastern Kentucky University and is deserving of the scholarships for her achievements, campus involvement, and continuing education here at Eastern Kentucky University.”

The Honors student will graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Risk Management and Insurance with a minor in history. Meachum noted, “I have immensely enjoyed my time at EKU and am hoping to attend law school, eventually bettering both myself and my community.”

DR. CHRISTIANE TAYLOR Creating Lasting Opportunities

Dr. Christiane Taylor and her late husband, Ron Taylor, had long believed that living a meaningful life included giving freely of their time, talent and treasure.

So, it was only fitting that they found a way to provide current and future EKU faculty and students similar opportunities for personal and professional success. Four newly established funds testify to the Taylors’ generosity: two in Dr. Taylor’s name in history and two in Mr. Taylor’s name in art and design. In both departments, they provide for materials and supplies for students in financial need, paid internships and other student needs, as well as course release time for professional development and other faculty needs.

“Our experiences at Eastern significantly shaped our donation decisions,” Dr. Taylor said. “We decided to donate to the institution because we acknowledged the critical role post-secondary education had played in our daily personal and professional lives. We wanted

our monies to go to ‘invisible’ but critical elements in ensuring institutional and student success at Eastern.”

When Mr. Taylor passed away in 2015, Dr. Taylor was chair of the EKU Department of History. Her husband, a former advertising executive, had completed a bachelor of fine arts degree at Eastern a decade earlier, interacted often with faculty and was well known for his watercolors of local and campus landmarks.

“Every day during my 20 years at Eastern, I had tangible proof that I was making a difference in my students’ lives,” Dr. Taylor, now retired, said. “That’s why I decided to give to Eastern. For Ron, he would have said that coming to Eastern at age 62 to complete his four-year art degree and taking summer art courses in Italy were among the best times in his life. Giving others that same type of opportunity is why we decided to give to Eastern.”

Dr. Taylor photographed in the Noel Studio with artwork by late husband, Ron Taylor

JOSIE TEAGUE Keeping History Alive

Much like Dr. Christiane Taylor, Josie Teague possesses a profound appreciation for history, art and artifacts, as well as education. Though her hometown is Dawson Springs, Kentucky, Teague dreamt of studying history through any and all lenses the world offered. That ambition and the opportunity to study abroad brought Teague to Eastern where she has gained extensive knowledge in both American and European history. Those studies will soon culminate in an opportunity to travel to London and learn a new perspective first-hand from primary sources. “I want to walk the same roads they walked, see what they saw. I want to envision London from their perspectives,” Teague said.

After graduating, Teague plans to pursue a master’s in library science with the ultimate goal of curating museum collections and exhibits. “I want to build educational programs that explain the importance of keeping history alive and educate the public about the significance of their past.”

First Impressions

THE CORNER: MIKE CONWAY AND TIM MCCUBBIN

You never get a second chance to make a good first impression. Taking that old adage to heart and knowing the importance of an attractive campus landscape to current and prospective students, EKU alumni and longtime close friends Mike Conway and Tim McCubbin pooled their resources to, recalling the old hymn, brighten the corner where they were together many times between classes in the mid-1970s. Their gift, tied to the University’s “Campus Beautiful” initiative, refurbished a popular meeting spot for countless students and alumni: The Corner outside the Powell Student Center.

On a campus visit in 2020, Conway and McCubbin noticed some areas on campus that brought back great memories but were in

need of a fresh look. “We felt like … The Corner was a perfect place to start,” said Mr. McCubbin, a 1976 business graduate. “We entered into a joint development agreement with the University to refurbish The Corner for students, faculty and friends to enjoy for many years. We hope this central area of campus will continue to be an area where students can meet and develop great friendships. EKU alumni and friends can help the University in many ways; the Corner project demonstrates another way a potential donor can help.”

Mr. Conway, a 1975 business graduate, believes a student’s first impression of any campus is critically important when making a final selection of a college to attend. The two expressed their appreciation to Betina Gardner, vice president for university development and alumni engagement, and

Bryan Makinen, associate vice president for public safety, adding that the two EKU officials were outstanding to work with and made the entire process seamless.

It’s not the first time that Mr. Conway, executive vice president of acquisitions and development for the Pyramid Global Hospitality, and Mr. McCubbin, retired after 25 years in various logistics leadership roles at Levi Strauss & Co., have paid it forward at their alma mater. Mr. Conway and his wife, the former Ginger Ashby, a 1978 EKU nursing grad, had earlier established the G. Michael and Ginger A. Conway Endowed Fund to provide operational support to help address needs of the College of Business and Technology. Similarly, the Tim and Laura McCubbin Endowed Fund provides scholarships to deserving graduates of Walton-Verona High School who enroll as full-time freshmen at EKU. Mr. McCubbin and his father both attended Walton-Verona, the latter a former chair of the district school board.

“The first time I set foot on EKU’s campus, I knew it was the place for me,” said Mr. Conway, whose mother, sister and daughter also attended the University. “Eastern prepared me for the complexity of running a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week business. My wife and I wanted to give back to EKU in hopes others would have the same opportunity we did.”

Mr. McCubbin said he, too, received a “quality education” and “learned so much from working with EKU professionals like Dr. ‘Skip’ Daugherty. Now, when I think of Eastern Kentucky University, I also appreciate the opportunity I had to meet and develop the ‘friendship of a lifetime’ with Mike.”

Setting an Example

KADENCE ROBERTS

First-year student Kadence Roberts is setting an example both in and outside the classroom. Originally from Walton, Kentucky, Roberts grew up with her younger sibling in tow. Her love for caring for others only grew with time and after a high school experience assisting children with special needs, Roberts decided to pursue a nursing career. Eastern’s small class sizes and favorable student-to-teacher ratios caught her attention, and a campus visit solidified her decision to become a part of the Campus Beautiful. Wiith the assistance of the Tim and Laura McCubbin Endowed Scholarship, Roberts has nearly completed her first year on campus.

“I will be the first child in my immediate family to graduate college and I want to show my sister that just because it hasn’t happened yet, doesn’t mean it cannot be done. I want her to know that hard work pays off.”

Photo (on left): The Corner outside of the Powell Building has a fresh new look thanks to the contributions of alumni Mike Conway and Tim McCubbin. Extensive lighting, thoughtful landscaping, and dedication plaques have the given the favorite gathering place revived life.

LINDA MCCALL KANGETER Honoring a Life of Exploration

Long before she arrived at Eastern Kentucky Teachers’ College in the 1930s, Gertrude Lee (Kay) Johnson McCall was well on her way to a life full of travel, adventure, and discovery.

When the Whitley County, Kentucky, native was three, her family moved by train to southeastern Washington. After 10 years, the family returned to Corbin to be closer to aging relatives. So, by her mid-teens, Gertrude had already made two cross-country trips and lived in two very distinct parts of the country.

After graduating from Eastern in 1939, she returned to southeastern Washington to teach and picked up her nickname “Kay”, short for Kaintuck, the name Native Americans gave her home state. But that was hardly her final frontier. In September 1941, she moved to Fairbanks, Alaska, where she taught many Native Americans. After marriage, she moved to New Jersey and then Florida before settling in North Carolina, never losing her love of adventure as she continued to travel – throughout the U.S., to the United Kingdom, the Orkney Islands, Europe, Israel, Australia and New Zealand and through the Panama Canal – until her death at age 100.

Now, daughter Linda McCall Kangeter, a retired attorney, is honoring her mother by helping future generations achieve their own educational dreams. The Gertrude Lee (Kay) Johnson McCall Endowed Scholarship Fund “is intended to help others follow her inspiration, to expand their horizons and to live with curiosity, courage and care for others,” Ms. Kangeter said.

“Mother strongly believed in education. Growing up in small, rural communities, her opportunities seemed limited, but her education enabled her to pursue a career she loved. Like her, I believe that education provides the groundwork for a life of exploration – a life of learning new things, meeting new people, visiting new places and having new experiences.”

The Legacy Society recognizes alumni and friends who have provided for EKU in their estate plans. These charitable contributions greatly benefit Eastern while often offering substantial tax advantages to the donors. The most common form of an estate or “planned” gift is a will bequest in which a donor names EKU as beneficiary of a specific dollar amount or percentage of an estate. Other planned gift options include charitable gift annuities, charitable remainder trusts, and gifts of life insurance. A number of unique variations are possible with these plans, many of which provide donors with lifetime payments.

290 MEMBERS $4,113,500 COMMITTED

Colonel Athletics enhances the full collegiate experience, offering students educational and personal opportunities in the stands, on the field of play, and beyond. Eastern Kentucky University supports over 300 student-athletes in their pursuit of academic, athletic, and personal excellence. The Colonel Club helps provide the resources necessary to maintain a first-class athletics program.

990 DONORS ————————————

$781,679 RAISED

Leading by Example

ALAN LONG

As a 1979 accounting graduate and as a member of the EKU Board of Regents since 2014, Alan Long, CPA, CITIP, CGMA, is acutely aware of the numbers that best reflect the growing importance of private support for the University.

When Mr. Long earned his bachelor’s degree, state support constituted approximately 70 percent of the EKU budget. Today it’s less than 20 percent.

In the intervening years, Mr. Long parlayed his degree from Eastern into a highly successful career, one that has enabled him to generously give of his time, talents and treasure to help his alma mater prepare subsequent generations of leaders, both in their professions and communities. Today, he serves as managing member of Baldwin CPAs PLLC in Richmond. A Distinguished Alumnus of EKU’s College of Business and Technology, he is a former president of the Kentucky Society of Certified Public Accountants and has been actively involved with the American Institute of CPAs, having served on its Peer Review Board, Auditing Standards Board, and the Professional Ethics Executive Committee.

“Without my education from EKU, I would not have been able to accomplish what I have in my life and career,” Mr. Long said. “I believe in giving back.”

Close relationships with athletics administrators and coaches prompted him to target much of his support to the University’s sports and cheerleading programs. “Athletics is a marketing piece that helps promote the Eastern brand on a national scale,” he said.

Now, as vice chair of the Board, Mr. Long feels an extra sense of obligation. “As Regents,” he said, “we need to lead by example, and one piece of that is giving of our financial resources.” And he encouraged others to consider how their own lives have been transformed by Eastern. “Any donation, no matter how large or small, can always be utilized.”

Turning Passion into Occupation

CORY VAUGHN

Scholarships reach far beyond the undergraduate realm. Students at all points in their educational journey may benefit from additional help, especially those dipping their toes into the professional world for the first time or actively pursuing a highly competitive career. Cory Vaughn graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management in 2021 and is now well on his way to a graduate degree in exercise and sport science. The Anderson County, Kentucky native hopes to one day be the personality for a sports news network and has held multiple positions on campus, including a graduate assistant for his area of study. He currently serves as the social media director for Hoop Dreams, a company focused on providing youth basketball training in Lexington. Vaughn stated, “Athletics has always been my passion and my education and experiences while at EKU will help turn that passion into an occupation.”

EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

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* Audited financial statements, including auditor’s opinion and required disclosures, are available at https://financialaffairs.eku.edu/annual-financial-reports

EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION BOARD

David McFaddin ’99 ’15 University President

Betina Gardner Vice President for Development and Alumni Engagement; Executive Director of EKU Foundation

Troy Ellis ’87 Board Chair

Jeri Isbell ’79 Vice-chair

Suzanne Fawbush ‘83 Secretary

Barry Poynter ’92 Treasurer

Deborah Alexander ‘77 Chair - Nominating & Governance

Bill Reddick ‘87 Chair - Finance & Audit

Don Whitaker ‘62 Chair - Development

Maribeth Berman ’92

Martin Cobb ‘96

Robert Click ’73

Charley Gillispie ‘74

Matt Evans ’91

Jim Guice ’11

Richard Mattingly ’78

Mary Ousley ’74 ’86

Andrew Page ’92

John Wade

Mike Eaves ’75 Board of Regents Representative

Bob Sullivan ‘72 International Alumni Board Representative

Eastern Kentucky University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and educational institution and does not discriminate on the basis of age (40 and over), race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, ethnicity, disability, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information in the admission to, or participation in, any educational program or activity (e.g., athletics, academics and housing) which it conducts, or in any employment policy or practice. Any complaint arising by reason of alleged discrimination should be directed to the Office of Equity and Inclusion, Jones Building, Eastern Kentucky University, 521 Lancaster Avenue, Richmond, Kentucky 40475-3102, (859) 622-8020 or the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, Lyndon Baines Johnson Department of Education Building, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC. 20202 1-800-421-3481 (V), 1-800-877-8339 (TDD).

Foundation_Report 2023_Final

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