CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — As a result of a $1 million gift to the Parkland College Foundation, the Parkland College Student Union will be renamed to the Shapland Student Commons, named for the late George T. Shapland.
The donation was facilitated by his children, Charlie, Mark, and Laura Shapland.
“I’m glad we can do something that honors our father and what he championed in life,” said Charlie. “Education was something he supported, especially in the trades, and believed strongly in the impacts it can have, both in his life and for others. I think he believed in people who were willing to take the leap, and we just want his legacy to be a part of what helps Parkland make that possible.”
The gift will be designated to Parkland’s General Nursing Fund and unrestricted support to the Parkland College Foundation, to be used where the need is greatest.
“Parkland College empowers students to build brighter futures for themselves, their families, and their communities by providing access to high-quality education, and the Foundation ensures the resources are in place for that mission to thrive,” Parkland president Pam Lau said. “This generous gift from the Shapland family in George’s honor opens new doors for learning, growth, and advancement—creating opportunities for more students to achieve their goals.”
As co-chair of the Parkland Foundation Major Gift Campaign “Creating Brighter Futures,” which ended in 2005, Shapland led efforts in raising $14 million for the college. He also collaborated with community organizations and individuals to support academic programs and provide scholarships for Parkland students. In 2003, he established a scholarship in his name in 2003, and was also instrumental in the purchase of lab equipment used in the Health Professions department.
“The Shapland family’s leadership has been instrumental to the growth and strength of the Parkland College Foundation,” Parkland Foundation Executive Director Danielle Wilberg said. “Their service and generosity extend far beyond this gift and reflect a long-standing commitment to Parkland and the community.”