Calvin University receives $3 million gift from alumna
The gift will name the university’s track and field facility after alumna Mary Workman and her late husband, Jim.
Calvin University has received a $3 million gift from alumna Mary Workman to name the university’s new track and field facility the Workman Track and Field in honor of her late husband, Jim. The Workman Track and Field facility has been in operation for more than a year, but has only recently received its name thanks to Mary Workman’s gift.
According to an article on Calvin University’s website, Mary explained her connection to the university. She is quoted as saying, “Education was important in our family. We never even talked about it. It was just understood, that’s where you’re going. I had a great time at Calvin. I had wonderful friends, strong professors, and faith that was part of everyday life. It wasn’t restrictive. It was just a good place to be. Christian education prepares people not just for a career, but for life. It gives students the confidence to stand for what they believe.”
Mary attended Calvin University in the 1950s. She studied Math, and was one of the few female students who did at that time. She received mentorship from professors in the classroom and found the university community to be welcoming. She met Jim in her freshman year, dated him throughout college, and married him once they graduated. As a couple, the Workmans continued advocating for a Christian education, even funding education and assisting their grandchildren with tuition.
Speaking of her decision to donate money to the university’s track and field facility, Mary said, “I want Calvin to stay excellent and stay faithful. It prepares students well, and I think it will continue to do that for years to come. Keeping the institution healthy matters. It’s important that Calvin continues to be a place where students grow, learn, and build their lives.”
She added, “I like knowing it’s nearby. I can drive by and see it. And I think about the students who are out there, running, learning, building their futures.”
For more information about Calvin University, visit the school’s website.