Gerald & Peggy Loafman

Gerald & Peggy Loafman of Bowling Green made a lead annual gift commitment of $25,000 over five years. This gift will annually provide support for programs of their choice, including the Construction Management Program, The Kentucky Museum and the Hilltopper Athletic Foundation.

"Western has a special place in our hearts and lives," Peggy Loafman said. "We are very interested in its continued success and progress toward national prominence."

The Loafmans are both WKU alumni, and Peggy has served on the WKU Board of Regents since 1996 and is also a current member of the President's Circle Advisory Committee.

The Loafmans are among 1,082 Western alumni and friends who last year chose to make a meaningful lead annual gift to the University and become a member of the President's Circle. The President's Circle was established in the 1980's to recognize Western donors who give $1,000 or more each year. Its membership has nearly tripled in the last three years, and this year's figures reflect a 22 percemt growth from 1999-2000.

Donald Smith, WKU's director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving, says the President's Circle was formed to honor alumni and friends who provide the necessary support for Western's continued commitment to excellence.

"The sustaining support of these donors maintains and strengthens the high quality associated with Western's academic, administrative and athletic programs, provides increased computer technology on campus, purchases essential materials for our classrooms and laboratories, attracts and retains distinguished faculty, and offers scholarships to outstanding students," he said.

Smith added that donors such as the Loafmans are leading the way toward Western's ambitious goals.