Kentucky Wesleyan College on Wednesday announced a $5 million gift from Keith and Vickie Sharber to endow and name the Communication Arts Program. KWC officials called it a landmark investment and significant commitment to student success and career readiness.
“This endowment is a transformational gift that comes at a historic moment,” said KWC President James Cousins. “We are so grateful to Keith and Vickie for their generosity and their belief in our mission. It affirms the Sharbers’ confidence in the College’s continued growth and the profound impact of the liberal arts. The need for leadership in the production of media, for expertise in media literacy, and for skilled rhetoricians and content producers has never been more pressing.”
According to a release from KWC, the Sharbers wish to leave a legacy at the College through an initial $1,000,000 cash investment followed by a generous estate commitment.
This investment carries deep meaning, as Keith’s career began across the street from KWC’s campus when he worked in the radio industry, and the couple is now ensuring stability and programmatic support for KWC communication arts faculty, staff, and students.
“Over the last three years being a proud member of the Kentucky Wesleyan College Board of Trustees, my and Vickie’s love and affection for this nearly 167-year-old liberal arts college has grown deeper and deeper,” Keith Sharber said. “Over the generations … countless lives have been changed and positively impacted by Kentucky Wesleyan College. It is staggering to learn how a diploma from Kentucky Wesleyan College has been the key, for many thousands of students, to unlock doors of opportunity around the world. Vickie and I want to be a part of assuring those purple keys continue to unlock doors of opportunity for countless generations to come.”
The KWC release says the Keith and Vickie Sharber Communication Arts Program Endowment underscores the College’s dedication to creating a dynamic and sustainable future.
“As the institution continues to grow, the endowment will serve as a foundation for expanding the communication arts discipline and the College’s overall impact locally, regionally and beyond,” the release says.
