Franklin College Receives Gift
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Franklin College is the recipient of a $500,000 estate commitment from longtime Franklin resident and photography business owner Phil Smith. The funding will establish the Phil Smith Engaged Learning Fund.
The school says the endowed fund will offer financial assistance for engaged learning opportunities and travel for pre-medical studies or field biology activities. The now-retired Smith says he learned his photography skills at Ball State University but adds Franklin College feels like home to him. Smith says he once lived in a house where the college’s Napolitan Student Center now stands.
“I want to provide an opportunity for students and faculty to learn more about their chosen profession, beyond the classroom. It gives me great pleasure knowing they will have the opportunity to learn from a variety of people, places and cultures in order to broaden their knowledge on the topics they are studying. Knowledge is powerful and the only thing that can’t be taken away from you,” said Smith.
Franklin College President Kerry Prather commended Smith for his support.
“Phil has devoted himself to the Franklin community, professionally and civically, for many years. We have greatly valued his work at many campus events, and even more the enduring friendships developed with him as a result,” said Prather.