Asheville Businessman Donates $100,000 to UNCA;
Funds Go to Student Research Program and Scholarships

UNC Asheville student-athletes and student-researchers will benefit from a $100,000 gift given recently to UNCA by Asheville businessman Darryl Unruh, owner of Pizza Huts of Asheville and Western North Carolina. The gift, to be made over four years, is earmarked for UNCA's nationally recognized Undergraduate Research Program and for athletics scholarships. $12,500 will go to each program annually.

"We are very grateful for this generous contribution to our student-athlete scholarship fund," said UNCA Athletics Director Joni Comstock. "This donation will allow more outstanding student-athletes to get a great liberal arts education and participate in Division I athletics. Mr. Unruh is a longtime supporter of UNC Asheville athletics and we are very appreciative."

UNCA's Undergraduate Research Program, which is ranked ninth in the nation, allows students in any discipline to design and conduct their own research with a faculty mentor. Students present their work at national conferences and many have their papers published.

"Our Undergraduate Research program, one of UNCA's crown jewels, will be greatly enhanced by this generous gift from Darryl Unruh," said Dr. Mark Padilla, UNCA vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. "These funds will provide additional opportunities for students to travel to the National Council on Undergraduate Research Conference, where they present their research to peers and faculty outside of UNCA. Funds will also go to student summer research projects on campus. These opportunities help in a significant way to prepare students for graduate school and their careers."

Media Contacts:

• Merianne Epstein, UNCA Public Information Director, 828/251-6676