1959 gives "transformational gift"

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of their graduation from Heidelberg wasn’t enough for the Class of 1959. During Alumni Weekend, Bill Brandy announced that he and his classmates had raised an amazing $1.6 million as their reunion gift to the university.

Brandy, who served as class president 50 years ago and has remained active in the life of his alma mater, told those gathered for the annual awards luncheon on Saturday (June 20) that the class is designating a gift of $201,000 for scholarships for students who are descendents of alumni.

“It is our hope that the scholarship will grow and prosper and strengthen the attendance of legacy families at Heidelberg,” he said.

The class has been planning and fund-raising for its 50th reunion gift for the past five years. In that time, its members have contributed $1,394,124 toward capital improvements and the Heidelberg Fund.

“We have been working hard to give this to the university. Capital improvements are always essential if the institution is to remain competitive,” Bill said. “We are proud of our gifts for these purposes.

He added that his classmates were guided by their motto, “Enter to learn. Depart to serve.”

“That is and will continue to be our motto. Everyone is welcome to contribute [to the scholarship fund] and our class will continue to contribute as well.”

An astounded Interim President Dr. Jim Troha accepted the gifts on behalf of the university. “I promise you, we’ll be good stewards of your gift, and we’ll assure the funds will go to help the students as intended,” he said.

Posted June 24, 2009