Couple send $3 million gift to Washburn Tech in historic donation
TOPEKA (KSNT) - The Washburn Institute of Technology has accepted a historic gift this week.
Lori Hutchinson with Washburn University (WU) announced in a press release on Dec. 13 that a gift of $3 million was made to Washburn Tech, making it the single largest donation to the program since 2008. This also comes shortly after a major expansion in north Topeka for Washburn Tech was announced last week.
“The impact of this gift is immeasurable and will make a tremendous difference in the lives of students, our instructors and staff, as well as the broader business and industry community in our region and state," said Washburn University President JuliAnn Mazachek. "Through their support, the McPhersons continue to show their deep commitment to education and workforce development, and we are incredibly grateful for their vision and generosity. It is an historic moment for Washburn Tech and a testament to investing in the future of technical education.”
Hutchinson said the gift comes courtesy of Bruce and Theresa McPherson. Bruce recently supported improvements at WU's baseball complex.
“When we saw the plans the university had for the future of Washburn Tech, we were eager to be a part of it," Bruce said. "Construction trades are vital to our regional economy and development, and Washburn Tech has demonstrated their commitment to making their programs accessible to all areas of the community. This is undeniably a great program worthy of support, and we hope to make Washburn Tech the premier technical institute in the state of Kansas.”
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