During Homecoming weekend festivities and the Alumni Awards and Pioneer Celebration, Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) honored President Emeritus Michael T. Benson with a portrait unveiling in the Keen Johnson Building on Saturday.
“It is humbling to see all the portraits of EKU’s former presidents here and think about the legacy that each made on our university,” said current EKU President David McFaddin. “I stand on the shoulder of giants, and that serves as my motivation every day to continue the legacy of excellence set before me by President Benson and our past leaders.”
Portraits of EKU’s former presidents line the walls of Walnut Hall in the Keen Johnson Building. The Keen Johnson Building, located in the heart of campus with its iconic bell tower, hosts numerous events such as banquets, receptions and conferences.
Dr. Benson served as EKU’s president from 2013-19, maintaining a distinguished record of success as an innovative, well-recognized and respected executive. He elevated the institution by developing political and external support for EKU that resulted in significant capital investments. Benson brought over 20 years of administrative experience in higher education, including his prior role as president of Southern Utah University.
The portrait shows Benson sitting on the steps of Turner Gate as a testament to his leadership at EKU. The word “Wisdom” inscribed on the Turner Gate is portrayed behind Benson. Benson was instrumental in the modernization of EKU’s campus, including the construction of the Turner Gate in 2016, donated by EKU alumni Craig and Madonna Turner. Since the installation of the campus landmark, students walk through the Turner Gate at the Big E Welcome Walk, a tradition symbolizing the beginning of the Eastern experience. The words “Wisdom” and “Knowledge” inscribed on the Turner Gate represent what students come to EKU seeking, and “Purpose” and “Passion” inscribed on the other side represent what students gain during their time at EKU.
“Eastern Kentucky University will always be a very special place for my family and me,” said Benson. “Our time spent among the wonderful people of Richmond and on a campus we grew to love created wonderful memories and life-long friendships. To be remembered with a portrait in my favorite building, Keen Johnson, with other leaders I truly admire is a great honor and deeply appreciated. We sincerely hope we left EKU a better place than when we arrived in 2013.”
In addition to the Turner Gate, Benson led the campus revitalization effort to include the construction of Grand Campus, Case Dining Hall, the new Martin Hall, North Hall, Carloftis Garden, Recreation and Wellness Center, Powell Student Center renovation, Phase 2 of the Science Building, the Eastern Scholar House, a parking garage, Roy Kidd Stadium expansion, new Earle Combs Stadium and new Gertrude Hood Field. He also taught a class while serving as EKU president. Benson is the author of numerous publications and books, including co-authoring “College for the Commonwealth: A Case for Higher Education in American Democracy.”
The nameplate below Benson’s portrait reads:
During President Benson’s tenure, the University embarked on a historic campus revitalization, one of the most ambitious initiatives in its history including the construction of a dining hall, residence halls, the Turner Gate, the University’s first parking garage, athletic and academic facilities, recreation center and renovations to the student center. Benson’s vision of “Make No Little Plans” resulted in the largest comprehensive fundraising campaign in University history. Benson served as President of the University with distinction while being a bold, public advocate for higher education.