Local businessman and wife give $1 million to WU

“As native Topekans, we recognize what a tremendous asset Washburn is to the community and the region,” said Mike McPherson.  “We are pleased to be part of a project that will have such a tremendous impact on the university and will serve students, staff, families and the community for many years.”

Mike and his brother, Bruce, founded McPherson’s Contractors, Inc. in 1972. While the home office is in Topeka, the company manages construction projects in numerous states.  In 1987, they partnered with Bruce Christenson to form MRV, Inc., which develops multi-family units and retail space in several states.

“Mike and Belinda have been leaders in our community and are long-time supporters of Washburn University,” said Jerry Farley, president, Washburn University. “Their investment in Washburn is indicative of their commitment to this community, and we are grateful for their belief in education and support of this important project that will make a tremendous impact on our students today and in the future.”

Through the years, the McPhersons have supported multiple initiatives at Washburn, including the renovation of Lee Arena in 2000. Belinda taught and coached at Washburn during the 1970s. Her love of teaching helped inspire them to create the Belinda McPherson Scholarship Fund in 2007. “Mike and I certainly value education,” said Belinda McPherson. “The scholarship fund is one way we can help current and future students attend Washburn and get an excellent education that they might otherwise not be able to obtain.”

“We are so very fortunate to have had Mike and Belinda’s support through the years,” said JuliAnn Mazachek, president, Washburn University Foundation, the alumni relations, fundraising and investment management organization for Washburn University.  “It is because of friends like the McPherson’s that Washburn can provide an exceptional education to its students in an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and forming lifelong memories and friendships. We are truly grateful for their support of the Welcome Center and for their belief in Washburn’s future.”

The ribbon cutting and dedication of Morgan Hall and the Welcome Center will take place Friday, Oct. 23, 2015, in conjunction with Washburn’s 150th Grand Homecoming celebration.