University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy alumni Wendy and John McKinney have pledged $50,000 to the school's Faser Capital Campaign.
The $8 million campaign was launched earlier this year to attract funds to help renovate portions of Faser Hall, one of the pharmacy school's main buildings, to meet the needs of students for years to come. The building houses faculty offices, research laboratories and a skills lab for students.
"For years Wendy and John McKinney have supported our school in a number of ways," said David D. Allen, dean of pharmacy. "This gift is just another example of their dedication and commitment. I am exceedingly thankful for their willingness to help us achieve our goals for Faser Hall's renovation."
The McKinneys, who reside in Moss Point and own retail pharmacies (Burnham Drugs) in seven Mississippi locations, are serving on a committee to attract private funds for the capital campaign.
"Wendy and John have been indispensable to the Faser Capital Campaign," said Raina McClure, director of development for the pharmacy school. "They have contributed not only through monetary support but also with advice and committee leadership."
Donating to the campaign is a great way to exemplify giving back to the pharmacy school, Wendy McKinney said.
"Each of us who are fortunate enough to call ourselves a pharmacist and alum of one of the top pharmacy schools in the country needs to get behind this endeavor in any way that we can," she said. "It is up to us to ensure that the next generation of students have an even greater opportunity for an extraordinary education."
Renovations begin this fall and are expected to be completed by summer 2014.
To join the McKinneys in making a gift, mail a check with the Faser Capital Campaign noted in the memo line to the University of Mississippi Foundation, 406 University Avenue, Oxford, MS 38655; visit http://www.pharmacy.olemiss.edu/alumni/fasercampaign.html; or contact Raina McClure, development officer for pharmacy, at rmcclure@olemiss.edu or 662-915-6967.
Erin Garrett