Thanks to the support and generosity of Cynthia (Cindy) Atwater '75 Felton and Dr. John (Jack) Felton '74, the Valparaiso University Department of Athletics has announced a series of improvements to the Athletics-Recreation Center arena.
 
This gift continues a lifetime of generosity toward their alma mater as the Feltons further their seven-figure impact on the institution.
 
"Jack and Cindy are members of the Valpo family who understand how important philanthropy is to our institution's success," Director of Athletics and Campus Recreation Laurel Hosmer said. "Their latest gift expands on a series of generous and deeply thoughtful donations that have a lasting impact on the experience for our fans, student-athletes and the overall student population. It also opens doors for possibilities for both athletics and the University overall to invite our alumni, community and friends in new and meaningful ways. I am so grateful to Jack and Cindy for their friendship and support."
 
In addition to recent improvements made possible by their generosity, including the addition of state-of-the-art LED light fixtures and a lighting-control system that significantly enhanced the gameday environment, air conditioning will be installed in the arena this summer following commencement. This gift will elevate the student-athlete experience during volleyball, men's basketball and women's basketball competitions and practices. This far-reaching gift will also make a positive impact on members of the student body who utilize the ARC for campus recreation and intramurals, transform the experience for graduates and spectators during commencement ceremonies and enhance the overall environment for supporters and fans. It will also make a positive impression and impact on young people who attend Valpo summer camps and will open the door for additional revenue opportunities for the department through summer facility rentals.
 
"It is our privilege to work with the athletic department to provide a better experience for students, athletes and fans," the Feltons said.
 
The decision to attend Valparaiso University was transformational for the Feltons in more ways than one. They met while attending the University, beginning their five decades (and counting) of marriage. In addition to playing a significant role in their personal lives by bringing Cindy and Jack together, their Valpo educations shaped their path to significant success in their professional endeavors. Jack graduated with a bachelor of science in chemistry that led to a medical degree, and a year later Cindy completed her bachelor of science in nursing.
 
In 1989, they moved back to Valparaiso, 15 years after leaving the place where it all started. Jack continued to practice ophthalmology, while Cindy eventually joined the faculty of the College of Nursing and Health Professions (CONHP) as a professor and clinical coordinator.
 
"Jack and Cindy truly reflect the spirit of Valparaiso University," Hosmer said. "The way they consistently give of their time, talent and treasure in the many avenues they feel called to do on behalf of Valparaiso University is inspiring and they continue to be catalysts for our momentum forward. I would like to thank Jack and Cindy not only for their latest gift, but for their many years of unwavering support for this institution."