A Life of Service
A Lasting Legacy
One hundred family members, former students, friends and faculty members gathered at the Owensboro Country Club on April 28 to celebrate the career of Dr. W.L. Magnuson, who is retiring after 49 years of service to Wesleyan. Thanks to many generous donations, the Magnuson Scholars Program will provide scholarships to chemistry students in perpetuity. A total of $281,250 has been raised to date, exceeding the $250,000 goal. The evening included laughter and tears, and many expressions of gratitude to Dr. Magnuson for his commitment to student success. The first two Magnuson Scholars Program recipients, Sydney Leisure (rising senior) and Emily Jenkins (rising sophomore) were present. Each will receive a $2,500 scholarship. Eventually, there will be Magnuson Scholar in each class.
“I chose McMurry College (now University) in Abilene, Texas, at the encouragement of my hometown Methodist minister. At the end of my freshman year, my chemistry professor and mentor, Dr. W. Norton Jones, presented me with a generous scholarship for a chemistry major that enabled me to complete my degree. I want to thank everyone who gave to this scholarship, which will give many students a start in life, just as I got my start at McMurry. I am deeply grateful.”
– Dr. W.L. Magnuson
View Photos of the Celebration
