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HKPE Complex Named in Honor of Louise Ornelas Family

The UT Tyler Health and Kinesiology Physical Education Complex has been named the Louise Herrington Patriot Center. Joseph and Louise Ornelas, along with the university, wanted to recognize the outstanding university contributions of Louise’s family by using her family name.

Mrs. Ornelas’ donation of $6.4 million represents one of the largest gifts in the history of UT Tyler.

“With great enthusiasm, and great pride, we are pleased to announce the Louise Herrington Patriot Center. This naming will honor Lou Ornelas and her family, and is something that Joseph wanted to do from the very beginning,” President Rodney H. Mabry said.

To further acknowledge the Herrington family, the Jean Lancaster Health and Kinesiology Wing is named for Mrs. Ornelas’ sister. This wing will house the health and kinesiology department and includes sophisticated labs and classrooms, President Mabry added.

The center also includes the Maytee Fisch Convocation Center, the Jim and Bonna Bess Vaughn Recreation and Therapy Pool and the Meadows Student Lounge.

Completion of the 127,312 gross square-foot academic and recreational facility is projected for July 2003. It will house classrooms, laboratories, faculty offices, a gymnasium/convocation area with basketball and volleyball courts and seating for over 2,000, indoor walking/jogging track, aerobics area, free weights area and outdoor pool.

“The new center will provide both academic and recreational space. We needed a place where student life could thrive, and believe me, we now have it. With athletics and other student activities on the increase, the center, in fact will become the heart and soul of our campus for our students. So it is fitting that this very important central facility be named for one who has been a very special friend of this university for many years,” President Mabry added.

The Ornelases established the UT Tyler Ben R. Fisch Endowed Professorship in 1995 to honor retired physician Ben R. Fisch. Their support also established an endowed presidential scholarship and an endowed academic scholarship, as well as helping to make the R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center a reality.

Mrs. Ornelas is recipient of the Horatio Alger Award, which is given in recognition of the accomplishments and achievements of outstanding individuals in our society who have succeeded in the face of adversity.

Growing up on a farm in Arp, she developed her sense of determination and work ethic. Hard work and astute investments led to her success.

Other honors and awards include an honorary Doctor of Humanities, East Texas Baptist University; and Alumnus Honoria Cause and W.R. White Meritorious Service Award, Baylor University.

“The great generosity of this gift to UT Tyler has encouraged others to join in the project. The Ornelas’ capacity to not only give but also to quietly influence countless other leaders in joining forces makes it possible to offer quality education right here in our East Texas community,” President Mabry said.

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Contact person: Emily Battle, (903) 565-5604