By raising more than $4.9 million in endowed gifts from private sources, Eastern Kentucky University has reached its 2000-02 biennium goal to receive matching funds through the Commonwealth's "Bucks for Brains" program.

Sue Feamster, interim vice president for University advancement, shared the good news with EKU's Board of Regents at its regular quarterly meeting Friday, Nov. 8.

"We are deeply appreciative of all those alumni and friends of Eastern who contributed to this important effort," said EKU President Joanne Glasser. "Private support is more important than ever as we continue to work together to advance Eastern toward its goal of becoming a university of national distinction."

The EKU National Alumni Association contributed $1.5 million toward the endowment match program.

In June, the Commonwealth extended the deadline for all state universities to reach the match until December.

"This is a big day for the University," said Fred Rice, chair of the Board of Regents. "We're thrilled to be able to take advantage of the full amount made available to us by the Commonwealth. This gives us almost $10 million to apply toward endowed scholarships for deserving students."