Indiana State University Named Philanthropy Honorees

The institution selected four parties for its top transformational philanthropy honor.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Philanthropy

Isometric editorial illustration of a stone university archway and a commemorative stone pedestal, representing institutional recognition of philanthropy. — Indiana State University named Mel and Kathryn Burks, the Kramers, Thompson Thrift, and the Woodruffs as 2026 Philanthropy Award honorees. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Indiana State University has announced the recipients of its 2026 Philanthropy Award. The university recognized Mel and Kathryn Burks, Kent and Jamei Kramer, Thompson Thrift, and Troy and Melissa Woodruff for their contributions.

Why it matters

The March On! Award serves as the university's highest recognition for transformational philanthropy. Recipients are chosen based on their ongoing dedication and financial generosity toward the institution and its students.

The university recognized four distinct recipients for the 2026 Philanthropy Award. This honor follows the establishment of the March On! Award in 2015.

The players

Indiana State University

A public university located in Terre Haute that provides higher education programs and grants annual awards for philanthropy.

Thompson Thrift

A real estate development and construction company that was recognized as a recipient of the university's philanthropy award.

The details

The university selected these honorees to celebrate their commitment to advancing the mission of the institution. These individuals and the company will be formally honored during a celebratory dinner event scheduled for later this year.

The March On! Award was established in 2015.
The 2026 Philanthropy Award recipients were named.
The sixth annual President's Dinner will take place in fall 2026.

Market Landscape

This announcement follows the pattern of institutional recognition set by the university's 2015 establishment of the March On! Award. These awards help consolidate donor engagement and foster long-term financial support from local stakeholders.

The recognition of these local donors highlights key partners who contribute to the university's ongoing financial health. For the community, this reflects the continued investment in local students and educational infrastructure.

The takeaway

The university continues to leverage formal award programs to maintain strong relationships with significant financial contributors. Recognizing donors publicly remains a central strategy for securing the resources needed to support future student success.