FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO):  Local philanthropists and civic leaders Howard and Elizabeth Chapman have donated $1.5 million dollars to Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, for the Chapman Scholars Program and evolving Honors Program.

The donation is in addition to an existing $3 million dollar pledge from the Chapmans. Today’s $1.5 million gift will bring the Chapman’s total giving to over $7 million. 

“We are extremely grateful for this gift and the opportunities this creates to inspire, challenge, and celebrate our outstanding students,” said Chancellor Vicky Carwein. “The Chapmans established the Chapman Scholars Program to incorporate civic engagement with scholarship opportunities. We look forward to being able to continually offer these exceptional opportunities to our talented students who will become future leaders in our communities and beyond.”

The Chapman Scholars Program is recognized for combining civic engagement opportunities with scholarship options. The program selects incoming freshmen who are distinguished as high achievers in and out of the classroom each year. Chapman Scholars receive tuition, fees, room and board, and textbooks for four years.