IUP’s Philanthropy efforts were celebrated last night at a special dinner, and another fundraising effort was announced.
During the dinner, two special gifts for the science and math departments were announced. One was from Tim and Deb Cejka of Latrobe, who donated $2 million on top of the $5 million they’ve already gave towards the construction of the new science and mathematics building. Their gift completes the match required by the state Department of General Services to start construction on the new building. Both Tim and Deb are IUP alumni and Tim is the retired CEO of ExxonMobil Exploration Company and Vice President of ExxonMobil. Tim said that while the state match has been reached, they need roughly $12 million more for the building itself to help outfit it with the equipment needed for it to operate effectively.
On top of that gift, John and Char Kopchick announced their donation of $23 million towards science and mathematics initiatives, which represents the single largest gift in the university’s history. The Kopchicks, also IUP almumni, are first-generation college students for their families, and John was the co-inventor of the drug Somavert. Char said their gift will help “pay it forward” to the next generation.
It was also announced that a new fundraising campaign, called “Imagine Unlimited” will kick off, with a focus of funding student-centered initiatives at the university. The fundraising effort has already been underway in a quiet phase to see if this could be a success with a goal of $30 million in three years. In that time, the fundraising campaign has raised over $53 million, and they are looking for a new goal in the public phase of a total of $75 million.
(Confetti and Streamers fly as the new “Imagine Unlimited” campaign is announced by William Maudia (at podium) at IUP’s Philanthropy Dinner. Photo provided by IUP)
IUP President Michael Driscoll said that the new campaign and the generous gifts announced last night were great examples of “The IUP Way”.
The $75 million goal is expected to be reached in the next three years.
(From Left to Right: Interim Vice President for University Advancement Khatmeh Osseiran-Hanna; IUP President Dr. Michael Driscoll; William and Audrey Madia; Char and Dr. John Kopchick; Deb and Tim Cejka. Photo provided by IUP)