Campbell Divinity School receives grant from Titmus Foundation

The Campbell University Divinity School received a $500,000 grant from The Titmus Foundation, Inc. to be used for the construction of the gathering hall in Campbell’s Butler Chapel project. Philanthropist Edward B. Titmus made the announcement at the Divinity School worship service on Tuesday, Sept. 25.Located in Sutherland, Va., The Titmus Foundation, Inc. was established in 1945 by Edward H. Titmus, Sr., Ed’s grandfather and long time friend and supporter of Campbell University. Ed Titmus, a Campbell alumnus and member of Campbell University’s Presidential Board of Advisors, is serving in his forty-first year as president of The Titmus Foundation, Inc. which emphasizes the support of Baptist churches and religious organizations, higher education, health and cancer research and child welfare.”Since my experience as a Campbell student was invaluable from both a religious and educational standpoint, I felt led to give this gift so that others may have the same opportunity I enjoyed,” said Titmus. Titmus made the gift in memory of Savannah Johnson McLean, who he describes as “a true friend” while he attended Campbell. He has made previous contributions honoring distinguished members of the University family, Dr. Charles Howard and Edna Queener Proffitt.The $7.8 million Butler Chapel will be located in the center of campus and offer a spacious sanctuary, grand gathering hall, bell tower and prayer room. Planned outdoor spaces include a meditation garden and reflecting pool. Faculty, staff, alumni and visitors will likely be drawn to the chapel as a place to worship, attend weddings and enjoy special concerts. Architectural plans for the chapel are currently being finalized with construction set to begin as soon as funds are raised. “Campbell University is grateful to The Titmus Foundation, Inc. for the gift to establish the Savannah Johnson McLean Gathering Hall,” said Dr. Michael Cogdill, dean of the Divinity School. He said the hall will be the site of meaningful and sacred assemblies for the University and the Divinity School.”The chapel will provide a much needed ‘learning lab’ in which students will learn to preach, plan and lead worship,” Cogdill continued. “It will also house administrative offices for the Divinity School, which has experienced rapid growth, from its founding class of 37 students in 1995 to its current enrollment of more than 225 students.””The Titmus Foundation, Inc. grant will greatly enhance the intellectual and spiritual life of the University and the community,” said Campbell President Jerry M. Wallace. “We truly appreciate this generous gift from our faithful alumnus.”Photo Copy: Edward B. Titmus, president of The Titmus Foundation, Inc.

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