Arnold Palmer Field House

GLPIEF is pleased to announce that the field house at the new Athletic/Wellness Complex at the Greater Latrobe Junior/Senior High School will bear the name of its famous alumnus Arnold Palmer. This recognizes Mr. Palmer’s lifetime accomplishments and a $l-million unrestricted gift he made to the Greater Latrobe Partners in Education Foundation’s A+ Campaign.

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2014-09-17_12-40-06Dedication of the Arnold Palmer Field House took place on his birthday – Wednesday, September 10 – at the new facility with his family and friends, school and community leaders, government officials and students in attendance. The A+ Campaign is designed to impact and strengthen academics, arts and athletic programs throughout the Greater Latrobe School District.

Students benefit from Mr. Palmer’s generosity in several ways. Support raised for the A+ Campaign has provided funds for the renovation of the Junior High School arts corridor and new secure entrance, assisted with construction of the Athletic/Wellness Complex, and a Global Classroom Initiative which integrates state-of-the-art technology into all classrooms.

“Mr. Palmer’s generous gift is the largest we have received from an alumnus,” said Dottie Staffen, Board member for the Foundation and friend of the Palmer family. “Not only is it exciting for the campaign, it speaks volumes about the legacy and leadership Mr. Palmer has established for others in our community.”

A 1947 graduate of Latrobe High School, Mr. Palmer dominated the game of golf beginning with his high school career, twice winning the Pennsylvania high school championship. His golf legacy is only rivaled by his philanthropic endeavors and his reputation for unfailing kindness and loyalty toward his hometown of Latrobe.

Palmer02Latrobe native Ray Mt. Joy is the A+ Campaign Co-Chair along with his wife, Pam. “We all care deeply about the future of the Greater Latrobe community and there is no better way to ensure future prosperity than to support the education of the next generation,” said Mt. Joy. “Mr. Palmer’s leadership gift will pave the way for all students to realize their full potential.”

Superintendent Judy Swigart sees the A+ Campaign as a creative way to align the goals of private philanthropy with excellence in public school education. To date $4.3 million has been raised towards the $5 million campaign goal.

Funds are being raised to meet the A+ Campaign goals in Academics, Arts and Athletics and to support additional needs such as the Safety & Security Fund, expanding dual enrolled and advanced placement courses, and offering additional internships. Support also builds the capacity of the Education Foundation, created in 2012 to enhance and expand enrichment opportunities for all students in the School District. To support these needs, the Foundation is seeking further engagement of the Greater Latrobe community. Over the next few years, the Foundation will request the support of Greater Latrobe’s alumni, parents, grandparents, and local businesses and foundations to achieve its vision.

“The A+ Campaign is only the beginning of what we can accomplish to help students,” Education Foundation Board member James Okonak said. “We are very thankful to Mr. Palmer and the entire community for supporting these efforts and encourage people to become involved and contribute.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the Greater Latrobe Partners in Education Foundation or the A+ Campaign is encouraged to contact Jessica Golden, Director of Development, at 724-539-4220.

Additional photos from the festivities can be viewed here.

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