Meet Our Donors - Archive |
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September 30, 2005 to September 25, 2007 Jesse L. Jones Family A new Murray State University landmark, the Jesse L. Jones Family Clock Tower, was made possible by the support of private donors, but primarily a major gift from MSU alumnus Jesse D. Jones. A 1964 MSU chemistry and mathematics graduate, Jesse D., and his wife, Deborah, chose in 2006 to not only establish two scholarships for Murray State students, but to also make the primary gift in order to construct the clock tower. Named for the late Jesse L. Jones, the clock tower is a symbol of the appreciation Jesse D. feels for his father's educational guidance. The senior Jones, a skilled craftsman in welding and metallurgy, impressed upon his sons the importance of education. Jesse D. retired from a career in research, development and sales technical service with Albermarle Corporation. "I attribute a lot of the success and comfort I have achieved in my career to my father," Jesse D. said. His brother, Gerald, is also a graduate of Murray State and a retired principal of the Marshall County school system. Residents of Baton Rouge, La., the Jesse D. Jones family endowed the Jesse D. Jones & Deborah C. Jones Scholarship for the Advancement of Math and the Sciences to pay tribute to his alma mater for providing him with an excellent education. "I do believe in the profession of physical sciences and the professional career opportunities that are available," he said. "I have had a great experience, and providing opportunities for others is my goal in creating the scholarship and contributing to the completion of the clock tower." Additionally, the Joneses have also funded the Hattie Mayme Ross Renewable Scholarship for Graduate Students in the MSU college of science, engineering and technology. It is one of the largest scholarships ever given in the history of Murray State. A special addition to the clock tower was included due to the generosity of donors Dr. Charles Johnson and his wife, the former Jane Marlene Rann. A major gift by the Johnsons has been used to assist in the purchase of a new carillon in the Doyle Fine Arts Building as well as the special wiring and speakers that will allow the music to play from both Doyle and the tower. The sound of the carillon bells can be heard from a distance, so their gift of music enhances not only Murray State, but also the entire community. Charles and Jane are 1956 and 1957 graduates of Murray State, respectively—Charles with a B.S. in social studies and Marlene with the bachelor of music education degree. Loyal supporters of MSU for many years, the Johnsons are both retired from education careers.
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