Contact: Laura Hancock | University Advancement | lhancock@eou.edu
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
LA GRANDE, Oregon – The Eastern Oregon University Foundation has announced its first major gift to the “Ignite the Future” campaign.
Michael and Sue Daugherty, of La Grande, have designated half of their estate to be given to the EOU Foundation. Funds received will be used to establish two new, full scholarships and provide unrestricted funds for the Foundation.
“Our hope is that the investments supporting this gift will continue to mature and will result in a high six figure amount that will fully endow several scholarships,” Mike Daugherty said.
Daugherty, better known to students as “Mr. Mike,” will retire as director of Residence Life at EOU this fall, a position he has held for the past 26 years.
“Our campaign is entitled ‘Ignite the Future’ and that is just what this gift will do,” said Lyle Schwarz, EOU Foundation president. “The Daughertys have contributed so much to education at EOU and in this community. This gift will establish a legacy in their name that will benefit students for many years to come.”
The “Ignite the Future” campaign takes its name from a torch carried by the Queen of Knowledge at EOU’s former annual Evensong Ceremony, which was held on the steps of the Grand Staircase outside Inlow Hall until 1971.
As alums, the Daughertys hold a special connection with the students at EOU. In 1974, Mike graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s of science degree in general studies. While still a student, he created the Outdoor Program at EOU – a resource for students interested in exploring the rural landscape surrounding the campus. He continues to teach classes and guide adventure outings through the program.
During his time at the university, Daugherty served as interim dean of Student Affairs, oversaw the construction of three new residence halls on campus, and taught and mentored hundreds of student leaders through the Residence Life program.
Sue Daugherty also attended EOU, competing in intercollegiate volleyball and serving as director of the Outdoor Program for two years. She graduated in 1976 with a bachelor’s of science degree in education. A year later they both left to attend graduate school at Oregon State University, returning to La Grande in 1979 to begin their professional careers.
Sue has taught general and biological sciences and math at Imbler High School since 1979. She is the recipient of numerous regional and national teaching awards, including two Inspirational Teaching Awards from EOU.
“Higher education is an investment in people and our future. We value the personal growth and opportunities it provides and are especially thankful for the experience and preparation we received at EOU,” the Daughertys said.
“We felt it was important to support our beliefs through this gift and hope that it may provide some opportunities for future generations of EOU students for personal and professional development.”
The two scholarships that will be established in their name have been designated to benefit residence hall directors enrolled at EOU, and students majoring in education. The remaining 20 percent of the gift will be unrestricted and may be spent or invested at the discretion of the Foundation.
The Daughertys said that they choose to endow at least two scholarships for deserving students interested in teacher preparation and to support student leadership development via the Residence Life Program.
“It is our chance to give back to EOU in the areas that we have been so dedicated to, both professionally and personally.”
Estate gifts provide long-term stability and future income for the EOU Foundation. After the donors pass away, funds are transferred to the Foundation to be used as scholarships and to support other projects.
Eastern Oregon University
University Advancement
One University Boulevard
Ackerman Hall, Room 209
La Grande, OR 97850
Phone: 541-962-3740
Fax: 541-962-3680
Email: advancement@eou.edu