UA Chancellor Gearhart, wife to donate $1 million to the university

University of Arkansas Chancellor David Gearhart and his wife Jane, announced plans to make a $1 million donation to the college’s upcoming campaign efforts.

The campaign, known as Campaign Arkansas, is still in the organizational phase and will become public at a later date.

“David Gearhart is a fundraising pioneer, and he and Jane have always believed in the importance of private gift support,” said Chris Wyrick, vice chancellor for university advancement.

Ealier this year Gearhart announced his decision to step down as Chancellor as of July 31, but said he would remain a professor at the University after taking a brief time off.

“Jane and I wanted to make this gift to show our support for the University of Arkansas and our belief in higher education,” said Gearhart. “It is our hope that, through leading by example, others will follow suit and step up to support the flagship campus of Arkansas.

“This university has been a major part of our lives, and this gift pays tribute to what it has meant to us. We are honored that it is a part of our past and look forward to seeing what it achieves in the future.”

The gift is being made with cash and a deferred commitment, and its purpose will be determined at a later date