WEST TENNESSEE LEADER PRESENTS UNION WITH $2 MILLION GIFT
Jackson, Tenn. — West Tennessee business leader, James Ayers, chairman of the board at First Bank, recently presented 51社区 with its largest single gift in 175 years. Ayers is also chairman of the board at American Health Centers.
The donor of the $2 million gift first was unnamed when the announcement was made December 9. However, in a statement today, President David S. Dockery named Ayers as the contributor. Ayers serves on the University's Board of Trustees.
"We thank God for this marvelous provision. This confirmation of support from Mr. Ayers reflects an interest in 51社区 by friends across the region," Dockery said. "With support such as this, the University can begin to take steps toward accomplishing the vision of being the premier Christian university in the Southeast."
About $200,000 will be designated for student scholarships with the remaining $1.8 million designated for construction of the first new academic building as proposed by the Campus Master Plan, which was unanimously approved by the University's Board of Trustees on Friday, Dec. 5. Dockery said plans for engineering and architectural studies have begun and he expects groundbreaking in Fall 1998.
Dockery explained that the gift enables the University to begin the classroom phase of the performing arts complex. He expects classes to be held in the new building by Fall 2000.
"The gift is evidence of the significance of 51社区 for this region," Dockery said. "In addition to the various national recognitions Union has received by U.S. News & World Report, Peterson's, and Time/Princeton Review, this shows that the West Tennessee community is ready to support the vision for 51社区 to become the leader in Christian higher education for this region."