A.R. and Mary Ann Charnes

A unique $200,000 gift will help enable deserving students to experience the benefits of on-campus living at The University of Findlay.

The gift, from Mr. and Mrs. A.R. Charnes, was announced at an alumni dinner last night (Oct. 12, 2007). Mr. Charnes, a native of French Lick, Ind., is a 1966 graduate of Findlay College where he earned a degree in marketing. Mrs. Charnes, a native of Putnam County, Ohio, attended classes and worked at the college during the 70’s and 80’s. Their daughter, Renee, graduated from the institution in 1985.

“There are so many benefits to beginning freshmen to live on campus and experience campus life that we wanted to set up an endowed fund to help students who might not otherwise be able to afford to live on campus and enjoy this experience,” Mr. Charnes said. “Students who live on campus are able to get involved with activities creating life-long friendships. And they have a better opportunity to develop the core personal values that can guide them for the rest of their lives.”

The Charnes gift will provide room and board assistance to students who have been accepted to the University but who otherwise might not be able to afford to live on campus. The room and board assistance will become available starting in fall 2008.

“We have been greatly impressed with the leadership and stewardship of President DeBow Freed and we are glad we are able to give back to the University that has provided us so many opportunities and been an important part of our life,” Mr. Charnes said.

“The kind of support that Mr. and Mrs. Charnes are providing is very meaningful in many ways,” Dr. Freed said. “Their generosity will allow other students for many, many years to come to share the campus experience that shapes so many lives. The gift to the endowment helps to further strengthen the long-term financial health of the institution, and their gift stands as a shining example to all alumni to give generously so that others can benefit also. We are all deeply grateful to A.R. and Mary Ann for this wonderful gift.”

Mr. Charnes is the vice president of marketing for Getty Petroleum Marketing, Inc., a subsidiary of Lukoil Oil Co. He is a 41-year veteran of the oil industry, beginning his career with Marathon Oil Co. after graduating from The University of Findlay. Mr. Charnes joined Getty Petroleum Marketing’s management team in 1988 and will retire in February 2008.

The Charnes’ recently relocated to McCormick, S.C., where they plan to enjoy their retirement.