$100,000 gift establishes Jim and Betty Dye Non-Traditional Student Scholarship

When James W. Dye addressed Purdue University Calumet 2007-08 scholarship recipients as keynote speaker of the university’s annual Scholarship Recognition Luncheon Friday (4/18), he had a vested interest in doing so.

Thanks to a recent $100,000 gift from The James W. and Betty Dye Foundation, Purdue Calumet is establishing a new scholarship for non-traditional students.

Estimated annual interest earnings of some $4,500 from the endowed gift will support the Jim and Betty Dye Non-Traditional Student Scholarship.

The new scholarship was announced at the luncheon, which also celebrated the awarding of some $1.55 million in 1,013 total scholarships to 792 students during the current academic year. Scholarships awarded represent a 17 per cent increase from last year, while total recipients also are up 14 percent.

“Through their philanthropy, Mr. Dye and his late wife, Betty, expressed the value they place in pursuing and attaining a baccalaureate degree,” Purdue Calumet Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations Eric Thompson said. “Purdue University Calumet has a tradition of partnering with committed donors who support our hard-working students, the majority of whom juggle job, family obligations and other priorities while pursuing a Purdue degree.

“Through the Dyes’ leadership and financial investment, for which Purdue Calumet is deeply appreciative, this scholarship will provide a much needed and permanent funding source that will directly help determined, goal-oriented students attain their baccalaureate degrees.”

To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must be currently enrolled Purdue Calumet students who are residents of Lake County, graduates of a Lake County high school and have earned a minimum of 12 academic credits at Purdue Calumet. The scholarship is renewable, providing recipients continue to maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.75 (4.0 scale). Recipients must plan to carry at least 18 credit hours during the upcoming academic year.

“The Jim and Betty Dye Non-Traditional Student Scholarship will directly support the typical student who enrolls at Purdue Calumet,” Thompson said. “However, more support is needed to reach more students.”

More information about the scholarship and support for it can be obtained by contacting Thompson at 219/989-4155 or 800/HI-PURDUE, ext. 4155.

News Release Date: April 21, 2008