Long-time supporters of Eastern Kentucky University, Darrell and Jean Baker of Lawrenceburg have been named to co-chair the EKU Annual Fund.

The Annual Giving Program at EKU is an ongoing appeal via telephone, direct mail and personal solicitation to alumni, parents and friends and others. Most of the funds raised are unrestricted and applied to areas of greatest need at the University, but donors also may choose to directly support an academic college or department, as well as scholarships and other EKU Foundation accounts.

Darrell, who retired in 1999 as personnel administrator with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, is a 1964 graduate of Eastern Kentucky State College. Jean is a fifth-grade teacher for Anderson County Schools.

"Darrell and Jean have long been supporters of EKU, both through their service and philanthropic means and they understand that private gifts are more important than ever," said D. Scott Peters, director of annual giving at EKU. "We are delighted that they are providing leadership as we seek to increase alumni participation at Eastern."

A native of Berea, Darrell earned a bachelor's degree in commerce and political science at Eastern. He began to increase his involvement in alumni activities "about 10 years ago," serving in the Capital Area Alumni Chapter -- he's currently vice president -- and on the Alumni Executive Council.

"It's difficult to explain my feelings for Eastern," Darrell said. "Simply stated, Eastern is special to me and I want to do what I can to help the University serve others as it has served me. I have always been proud of Eastern and I'm thankful for the way the faculty and staff prepared me and my classmates for the future. I really enjoyed my time here and I met some of the finest people I have known. Many remain friends to this day."

The size of a gift isn't as important as alumni participation. "In fact," Darrell said, "the gift can take the form of service. Money always helps, but there are other ways alumni and friends of the University can serve. I encourage people to find some way to get involved in helping Eastern."

A daughter, Laura Baker Berger, is the third generation of the Baker family to graduate from Eastern. She earned a baccalaureate degree in 2000 and is now a graduate student.

"Since Laura came here, we've been more actively involved with Eastern," said Darrell, noting the couple's attendance at sporting events, plays and Center for Kentucky History and Politics programs. "I think Eastern has made a lot of progress in recent years. It's a top-flight institution."

For more information about the EKU Annual Fund, call 859-622-1573.