FRANKLIN, Ind. – Franklin College has received the largest gift in its history, a $15 million donation from Virginia Staff Shannon, Class of 1945, to construct the Charles B. Staff Center in honor of her father, a member of the Class of 1914.
The Staff Center will be located on the corner of Monroe Street and Branigin Boulevard, next to the Von Boll Welcome Center. It will house classrooms, offices, collaboration spaces, and conference rooms for the School of Business and the pre-law studies program, both of which will carry the Charles B. Staff name. Renderings of the building can be viewed here.
Charles B. Staff was a respected attorney and judge in Franklin until he died in 1953. His daughter Virginia was inspired by his intellect, work ethic, and generosity of spirit.
The Staff family lived a block from the Franklin College campus, and Mrs. Shannon describes her childhood as idyllic. She credits Franklin College with providing her “a wonderful education” that prepared her for a 42-year career as an elementary school teacher and a 33-year career in quality control with the Philip Morris Corporation.
"Virginia is a remarkable person who has led a fascinating life,” said Franklin College President Kerry N. Prather. “Her devotion to her father and her love for Franklin College have coalesced into this visionary gift that will enhance two of our most successful academic programs and provide an impressive tribute to Judge Staff.”
The Charles B. Staff Center will be a two-story building that includes a mock courtroom for pre-law students to practice skills, an investment strategy trading lab for teach business students, a small auditorium, and a covered patio.
This gift contributes to Franklin Forward: The Campaign for Franklin College, which builds on a strong period of institutional momentum
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