Ricker Family Donates $1 Million To Anderson University
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Anderson, Ind. — Anderson University recently received a $1 million donation from Jay and Nancy Ricker. The donation will be used for upgrades to Dunn Hall and other residence halls on campus.
”Anderson University is honored to receive this gift from Jay and Nancy Ricker as they give back to the Anderson community,” said President John S. Pistole. “Their generosity and intentionality is inspiring and an encouragement not only to current students, faculty, and staff, but our over 30,000 alumni and those future Ravens who will benefit from their gift.”
Jay and Nancy Ricker founded Ricker Oil Co. in 1979 in Middletown, Indiana. After amassing several convenience stores/gas stations, they moved their headquarters to Anderson and at one point, employed almost 1,000 people throughout the company.
The couple sold their business in 2018, which consisted of 57 Ricker properties,and since then they have focused on philanthropy toward several organizations in Madison County.
“This extraordinary gift from Jay and Nancy will allow us to add value to the student experience by refreshing our residence halls,” said Jen Hunt, vice president for advancement. “Dunn Hall will be the main focus, since it has gone the longest without renovations, but this gift will also be used for making noticeable improvements to the other residence halls. The appearance and comfort of these facilities have a huge impact on enrollment, retention, and overall student satisfaction, which in turn impacts our ability to grow and sustain the university.”
Hunt continued, “The Rickers acknowledge how important the community of Anderson has been to their business success and their family. Because of that, they have chosen to give back to the community through this gift, and they hope others will also be inspired to give in a meaningful way.”
Completed in 1954 and renovated in 1999, Dunn Hall houses approximately 190 men. It was the first male residence hall on AU’s campus upon its completion.
AU is in the midst of a focused fundraising initiative, Called to Soar, with the goal of raising $20 million by December 31, 2021. The university is nearing its goal, having received more than $18.7 million in gifts and pledges so far for scholarships, academic programs, and campus renewal projects. For more information about how you can make an impact at AU, visit calledtosoar.org or contact Jen Hunt at jehunt@anderson.edu or (765) 641-4063.
Anderson University is on a mission to educate students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 60 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 20 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult and graduate programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized among top colleges for its business, computer science, cybersecurity, dance, engineering, nursing, and teacher education programs. Anderson University was established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God.