The gala was held to recognize more than 200 community members and alumni who have previously donated to the foundation.
Doris Youmell, of Southampton, cuts the ribbon at the dedication of the new Loughman Living Room, named in honor of her cousins, the late John and Celeste Loughman. Joining her are Westfield State University President Evan S. Dobelle and WSU Foundation Director Donald Bowman, right, in Scanlon Banquet Hall. WESTFIELD – The Westfield State University Foundation held its second annual donor recognition event, a “Celebration of Philanthropy” on Saturday in Scanlon Banquet Hall. The gala was held to recognize more than 200 community members and alumni who have previously donated to the foundation.
The master of ceremony was alum Robert Johnson, the current president and chief executive officer of Special Olympics Massachusetts. Johnson began his career as a special education teacher and administrator. He was the state’s chief compliance officer for special education and helped to develop Chapter 766, our state’s comprehensive special education law, and authored the state’s regulations for the approval of private schools that serve publicly funded special needs children.
Johnson is a member of the Westfield State Class of 1970 who earned a master’s degree in 1972. He received an honorary doctor of public service degree in 2010.
“Those in attendance represent our most generous donors who have recognized the importance of stepping up, and we are profoundly grateful,” said Donald Bowman, foundation director. “It is our fervent hope that, in the coming weeks and months, we can illustrate to you the power of major gifts, planned gifts, and transformative gifts – and to provide the opportunities for you to consider joining us in major academic initiatives like university’s upcoming 175th anniversary in 2013.”
During the gala, there was a special ceremony to rename the Scanlon Living Room the Loughman Living Room in honor of the late Celeste Loughman, former professor of English. Loughman worked as a professor for 26 years until her retirement in 1998 and served two terms as chairwoman of the English Department. She received the university’s Distinguished Service Award in 1980.
With the death of Loughman and her husband, the Loughman estate transferred $300,000 to the Westfield State foundation to create an endowed scholarship fund to support students majoring in English. The scholarship will be given annually to a sophomore, junior or senior majoring in English who demonstrates academic achievement and financial need.
University president Evan S. Dobelle said he appreciates the relationships formed between the university and the community and hopes to strengthen those bonds.
“Our ongoing relationships with the city of Westfield and numerous not-for-profit organizations are enhancing quality of life on campus, while our faculty, staff and students offer outstanding service wherever they are needed in the community as eager volunteers, interns and board members,” Dobelle said.