Shepherd University’s Joseph P. McMurran Society dinner reception, hosted by President Suzanne Shipley and sponsored by the Shepherd University Foundation, was held in the atrium of Erma Ora Byrd Hall on Saturday, April 27. The annual event brings together members and their guests, along with Shepherd faculty, deans, and administrators, to honor those who have chosen to share their lifelong financial achievements with Shepherd through estate and other planned gifts. The event featured a four-course dinner exclusively prepared by Chef Scott Anderson and Shepherd catering.

During a brief program, Shepherd’s Foundation President Michael A. Smith recognized new members Michael M. Athey, Ann Wilson Hummer, Gina M. Miller and Stephen Skinner with a framed medallion and nameplate. New members not in attendance included Larry and Nancy Strite, and William Simmons and Jane Cook.

A retired school librarian and library media director with Prince Georges and Frederick County Public Schools in Maryland, Ann Wilson Hummer knows how difficult it is to build and maintain a library collection and resources. “Not only did I want to support the library, I also wanted to make a difference in the lives of future generations of Shepherd students,” she said of her deferred gift, the Ann Wilson Hummer Endowment for the Scarborough Library. It was this generosity of spirit and desire to leave a legacy that prompted Hummer to join the McMurran Society and attend its annual dinner for the first time, where she was welcomed by longtime members Ross and Karen Cunningham.

Recognized as the first president of Shepherd University, Joseph McMurran set standards of academic excellence that required him to make personal financial sacrifices in order to keep the College open. Through his dedication to Shepherd, McMurran began a tradition of philanthropy which is carried on today by the Society’s members.

Those interested in learning more about establishing a planned gift through the Shepherd University Foundation should contact Monica Lingenfelter, Shepherd University Foundation, P.O. Box 5000, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443-5000, 304-876-5397, mlingenf@shepherd.edu or visit www.shepherd.edu/fndtnweb.