Bowling Green, Kentucky, October 16, 2025
News Summary
Western Kentucky University has named its new business college building Amy and David Chandler Hall, thanks to a significant donation of $7.5 million from local alumni. The nearly completed facility will support various academic and athletic initiatives, contributing to a broader fundraising goal that has seen WKU raise over $44 million this fiscal year. This commitment reflects the increasing support from WKU’s alumni and community, with plans for an endowment to further enhance the college’s resources.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – Western Kentucky University (WKU) has officially named its new business college building Amy and David Chandler Hall, acknowledging a significant $7.5 million commitment from local alumni Amy Hale Chandler and David Chandler. This donation supports not only the business college but also various initiatives across academics and athletics.
The Gordon Ford College of Business’s nearly completed facility boasts a robust 113,000-square-foot design. Funding for this new building includes $74.4 million appropriated from the Kentucky General Assembly. To date, WKU has secured a total of $13 million in gifts either dedicated or committed to the Gordon Ford College of Business, with plans for donations to temporarily increase the university’s debt load—which was noted by WKU President Tim Caboni.
Moreover, a portion of the donations aims to establish a living endowment that will yield approximately $400,000 annually for the college’s initiatives, further enhancing its capabilities and outreach.
WKU has achieved a historic milestone in its fundraising efforts during fiscal year 2025, raising over $44 million, the highest total in the university’s history. Notably, 83% of the recent donations have come from gifts of $25,000 or more, marking the highest percentage of major contributions seen in years. In addition to this fundraising success, WKU remains committed to supporting WKU Public Media amidst upcoming $2.5 million in federal funding cuts over the next two years.
Additionally, WKU recently swore in Rush Robinson as the new WKU Student Regent, further emphasizing the representation of the university’s over 16,000 students. The university has also introduced an AI virtual engagement officer named Olivia, who has successfully engaged with over 60% of prospective donors, raising more than $10,000 in the past seven months.
To enhance its educational offerings, the WKU board has approved a new graduate certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Educational Technology Leadership. The dedication ceremony for the Amy and David Chandler Hall is scheduled for September 19 at 10 a.m.
In community efforts, Good Deeds KY, initiated by Emorie Osborne during her kindergarten years, continues to support veterans and the homeless through various volunteer efforts. This initiative has grown significantly, aided by partnerships with WKU and organizations such as HOTEL Inc. and the Salvation Army. Notably, a public relations class at WKU is currently organizing a fundraising event for Good Deeds KY, set to take place on March 4 at BG Skate.
In a remarkable display of commitment to social causes, a group of 12 WKU students and graduates, aligned with the Bike4Alz team, raised over $60,000 for Alzheimer’s awareness following a 50-day cycling journey from San Francisco. This initiative is particularly meaningful to team members, many of whom have personal connections to the disease.
Overall, through a combination of generous donations and community support, WKU has surpassed its original fundraising goal of $50 million and is now anticipated to raise over $100 million to enhance student support and overall campus experiences.
FAQ
What is the new name of WKU’s business college building?
WKU has named its new business college building Amy and David Chandler Hall.
How much did Amy and David Chandler donate to WKU?
The Chandlers made a commitment of $7.5 million to support the business college and various other efforts.
What is the size of the new facility for the Gordon Ford College of Business?
The facility is a nearly completed 113,000-square-foot building.
What other funding sources contributed to the new facility?
Funding for the facility includes $74.4 million from the Kentucky General Assembly.
How much money has WKU raised in gifts for the Gordon Ford College of Business?
There are $13 million in gifts either dedicated or committed to the college.
What was WKU’s fundraising total in fiscal year 2025?
In fiscal year 2025, WKU experienced its highest fundraising total in history, exceeding $44 million.
What percentage of recent donations were major gifts?
83% of recent donations came from gifts of $25,000 or more.
What is the dedication ceremony for Amy and David Chandler Hall?
The dedication ceremony is scheduled for September 19 at 10 a.m.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Building Name | Amy and David Chandler Hall |
| Donation Amount | $7.5 million |
| Building Size | 113,000 square feet |
| Funding from General Assembly | $74.4 million |
| Total Gifts for Gordon Ford College of Business | $13 million |
| Fiscal Year 2025 Fundraising Total | Over $44 million |
| Percentage of Major Donations | 83% |
| Ceremony Date | September 19 at 10 a.m. |
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Additional Resources
- Bowling Green Daily News
- WBKO News
- Bowling Green Daily News
- UAB Sports
- WNKY News
- Wikipedia: Western Kentucky University
- Google Search: Western Kentucky University
- Google Scholar: Western Kentucky University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Western Kentucky University
- Google News: Western Kentucky University
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