Anderson-Crawford Million Dollar Match Enhances Donations

Watch a short video about the importance of Putting Students First.

Bill Anderson and Ed Crawford

SHREVEPORT, La.— Bill Anderson and Ed Crawford, two of Centenary College's long-time leaders, have joined forces to support student scholarships.

Board Chair Emeritus Anderson '70 and current Chair Crawford have donated $500,000 each to establish Putting Students First: The Anderson-Crawford Million Dollar Match. Until December 31, the Million Dollar Match will provide $2 to student scholarships for every $1 donated to the Centenary Fund, up to $500,000.

"I am extremely pleased that these two leaders, who clearly embody the mission of Centenary, have come together to support students at this important juncture in Centenary's history," said Centenary College President, David Rowe. "A gift of this magnitude demonstrates an understanding of the value of an education from Centenary. Both of these men have a strong belief in the mission of the College, and contributions such as these assure our ongoing success. I am deeply grateful for their generosity."

This matching gift will significantly enhance Centenary's ability to help students in need during this critical period, according to Kathy Fell, Centenary's vice president for development.

"During these challenging economic times, our Trustees want to make certain that students are able to take part in the Centenary experience," Fell said. "The importance of a college education has never been greater. This gift will help many students fulfill their dream of becoming Centenary graduates."

She also believes the gift will help inspire other donors.

"The generosity of all our donors is crucial in providing sufficiently for our students," Fell said. "With more than 95 percent of all Centenary students receiving some type of financial assistance, gifts to the Centenary Fund for Student Scholarships are more important than ever. We are extremely thankful for this gift from two of our long-time supporters, both of whom exemplify great faith in Centenary as an institution of higher education where students' lives are transformed for service and leadership in the world."

For more information on Putting Students First, contact Fred Landry, Senior Director of Annual Giving at 318.869.5136.

About Centenary College of Louisiana

Centenary College is a private, four-year arts and sciences college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Founded in 1825, it is the oldest chartered liberal arts college west of the Mississippi River and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Centenary is one of 16 colleges and universities constituting the Associated Colleges of the South and has been recognized as "One of the Best 371 Colleges" by the Princeton Review and one of "America's Best Colleges" and one of "America's Best Private Colleges" by Forbes.com. In 2008 Centenary College celebrated 100 years in Shreveport and Bossier City.