Edison College Names Dr. Hugo D. and Wallie Spatz Hall
Nov 28, 2007
Wallie Spatz, Port Charlotte long-time resident and philanthropist, has made a $500,000 gift to the Edison College Foundation, Inc. to benefit students and academic programs at Edison's Charlotte Campus. In gratitude, the Edison College District Board of Trustees voted unanimously at their October 23, 2007 meeting to name the Charlotte Campus administrative building the Dr. Hugo D. and Wallie Spatz Hall.
With 100% matching dollars from the Dr. Philip Benjamin State Matching Program, $50,000 of the gift will provide a $100,000 endowment for student scholarships and establish the Dr. Hugo D. and Wallie Spatz Endowed Scholarship Fund. The remaining $450,000, when matched by the State of Florida on a two-thirds basis, will grow to $750,000 and establish the Dr. Hugo D. and Wallie Spatz Endowed Chair of Academic Advancement to support instructional enhancements at the Charlotte campus. Proceeds from the investment, not the principal, will be expended in perpetuity.
"We are deeply grateful to Mrs. Spatz for her generosity," said Dr. Patricia Land, Campus President. "The administration building is the first point of contact for our students, with registration, advising and student services clustered for easy access. Now students will be greeted by the name of this wonderful couple who have made a difference in so many lives through their compassion and benevolence."
Spatz, 91, began her career as a silhouette artist during World War II. She met Hugo at the Hollywood Canteen where soldiers were entertained before heading off to war. They corresponded daily and married the day after Hugo returned to the United States in 1945. He was in the optical business for 35 years and died 7 years ago at age 88. The couple has no children.
The Spatz giving legacy has also benefited the Genesis Homeless Center, Military Heritage and Aviation Museum, The Community Foundation, Academy Vo-Tech and the Charlotte Public School system.
The dedication of the Dr. Hugo D. and Wallie Spatz Hall is planned for February. Details to follow.
For more information on funding opportunities at Edison College, contact Ann Wilcox, Development Officer at 941-637-5604 or awilcox@edison.edu.
Last Updated: November 28, 2007
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