One year after kicking off the Amphitheatre challenge, the University of Mary Washington has successfully met the criteria to receive a $125,000 challenge grant from the Richmond-based Mary Morton Parsons Foundation. During that time frame, the number of UMW donors making gifts to restore the century-old Amphitheatre nearly tripled.
“This cherished landmark is important to generations of Mary Washington alumni and members of the local community,” said President Troy D. Paino. “The excitement created by the challenge encouraged donor participation and helped UMW reach the $125,000 threshold to receive the matching grant. All in all, these new gifts move UMW closer to the $3 million project goal to preserve the Amphitheatre’s legacy here at Mary Washington.”
Since July 1, 2011, UMW has raised $2.75 million to fund the restoration project, including lead gifts from Donald B. and Josephine McPherson Heslep ’56; Robert S., Jr., and Alice Andrews Jepson ’64; and Elmer Morris Jr. ’50 and Marceline Weatherly Morris ’50.
UMW is partnering with Glavé & Holmes Architecture of Richmond, Virginia, to accomplish restoration goals: return the Amphitheatre to its historical glory, increase accessibility, upgrade infrastructure, enhance flexibility, add restroom facilities and sustain the park-like setting.
Site preparation for the restoration is expected to begin in July. A dedication ceremony is planned to coincide with Reunion Weekend in June 2018. Visit http://giving.umw.edu/amphitheatre to make a gift or to view plans for the Amphitheatre restoration.
For more information, contact Donna Raab, executive director of advancement campaign initiatives, at draab@umw.edu or 540-654-2059.
