Bill Muir and Ron Downey

Changing Lives: Bill Muir and Ron Downey’s contributions to the All-University Campaign totaled more than $1 million toward the betterment of the university.

Bill’s Gift

K-State connection: Bill is the assistant vice president for community relations at K-State.

Why he gave: “There are three things that have made me the person I am today: my family, my fraternity and my university,” he said. “And now, after 20 years working for K-State and the KSU Foundation, it is my turn to give back to my alma mater. I’ve been chapter adviser for the Alpha Tau Omega chapter for 36 years and a faculty representative to both Student Senate (14 years) and Union Governing Board (8 years). Being around students keeps me young at heart and in spirit! My gift will continue that feeling for a long time after I’m gone.”

Impact: His gift, made through a bequest, is designated for a future campus structure. Bill has also supported a variety of scholarships and university enhancements.

Ron’s Gift

K-State connection: Ron came to K-State in 1975 with a joint appointment in administration and the psychology department. After serving 10 years as an associate provost, he is now a professor in the psychology department at K-State.

Why he gave: Ron’s gift to K-State was made through a bequest. Family was an important part of his decision to establish the Downey Family Scholarship Fund.

“My children were basically raised in Manhattan and both went to K-State and received degrees here. I hope I have been able to repay for all these opportunities by my interactions with the many friends, colleagues, employees and students I have interacted with both here and around the world.”

Impact: “My family hopes to provide future students an opportunity to complete their degrees without the additional burden associated with excessive work commitments and/or large loans,” he said. “We also hope when the scholarship recipients graduate, they will feel an equal commitment to helping others achieve all that they can and should be.”