Indiana University East presented two awards to Rob Tolley and Dr. Gregory Woods for their generous support of the campus and its students during the annual Spirit of Philanthropy Luncheon held November 14 at Forest Hills Country Club. Vice Chancellor for External Affairs Rob Zinkan presented the awards.

Tolley is a senior lecturer in Anthropology and Sociology at IU East. The award recognizes his generous support of students and embodiment of the Spirit of Philanthropy including serving on the Campus Campaign committee, the annual fundraising campaign for faculty and staff. His support and encouragement of colleagues helped the campus achieve a remarkable giving rate of 92 percent in 2013. The national average is just 22 percent of faculty and staff who make a financial contribution to their university.

“Rob epitomizes the joy of giving and is always the first one to make a gift,” Zinkan said. “The focus of his teaching and the focus of his giving have always been about student success. We are grateful for his tremendous support, building a culture of philanthropy on campus and bringing out the best in others.”

Tolley has taught at IU East for 35 years and will retire at the end of this academic year.

Woods, an orthopedic surgeon at Reid Hospital & Health Care Services, was recognized for his partnership with IU East as a major supporter of the athletics program and the Student Events Center capital campaign.  The Spirit of Philanthropy award recognizes those who have a profound impact on the university’s growth and development through their gifts and voluntary service.

“Dr. Woods has been a supporter of IU East Red Wolves Athletics from the beginning. As a former student-athlete, he knows first-hand how athletics can build community and enhance the overall university experience for all students,” Zinkan said.

Through his work at Reid Orthopedic Center, he has been an integral part of the Red Wolves athletics program and its success, as Reid serves as the team physicians for IU East and provides an athletic trainer at no cost.

The annual Spirit of Philanthropy Luncheon raises funds for scholarships and other community involvement activities that provide important experiential learning opportunities for IU East students.