WSU celebrates Jo Washburn!
WSU celebrates Jo Washburn
By C. Brandon Chapman – College of Education
Sure, Jo Washburn was a fighter. After all, she sued her own university for gender equity in sport. But, more than simply bygones being bygones, that same university now celebrates Jo and her actions. It’s what often happens with time and perspective. And Jo showed what those close to her always knew: she’s more than a mere fighter, she’s something more – she’s a giver.
Jo passed away almost a year ago. But not before she left more than a million dollars to the College of Education and its Sport Management program.
On Saturday, September 4, 2021, in conjunction with Washington State University’s home football game against Utah State University, Jo was honored by the WSU Foundation’s Acting VP of WSU Advancement & CEO Mike Connell, President Kirk Schulz, Provost and Executive Vice President Elizabeth Chilton. Sue Durrant accepted the recognition on Jo’s behalf and was joined by Sport Management program chair Simon Ličen.
Reaction
The College of Education posted the good news during the game.
Immediately, good things started to come in.
Moving forward
Jo’s legacy gift ensures that the success of the Sport Management program doesn’t end. Each year, a Sport Management student is, and will be, the recipient of the Washburn/Durrant Sport Management Endowed Scholarship.
Further gifts to support Sport Management students would continue Jo’s amazing legacy and help the lives of students, of whom Jo was very fond.