Senator Tom Butler Receives Presidents Medal from Athens State University
Butler announces scholarship in memory of late daughter

Athens, ALA – Athens State University President Robert Glenn presented former Senator Tom Butler with the President’s Medal at the institution’s summer graduation ceremonies on August 27.  The President’s Medal is the University’s highest recognition and is given for service, honor, and loyalty to furthering the mission of Athens State University.

                Butler made remarks congratulating the graduates and thanking the faculty, staff and students for a job well done.

                Butler announced that his family and son-in-law Damon Lares were establishing an endowed scholarship with the Athens State University Foundation in memory of his daughter Jill Butler Lares.   Jill, who recently lost a lengthy battle with cancer, received her degree in elementary education at Athens State University and was employed as an elementary school teacher. 

Former Senator Tom Butler receives the President’s Medal from
Athens State President Bob Glenn

Butler remarked, “She loved teaching and was passionate about her students.”

                “Jill believed in learning and education,” said Rick Mould, Vice President for University Advancement.  “This scholarship in her name will create opportunities for future teachers and assist those who embrace children and the teaching profession.”

                Contributions to the scholarship may be made online through the University’s website at:  www.athens.edu/advancement/donate.php.   Checks may be made payable to:  The Athens State University Foundation, Jill Butler Lares Educational Scholarship, P.O. Box 70, Athens, AL 35612.  The Foundation is a recognized 501(c )(3) organization and all gifts are tax deductible.  For more information contact the Foundation Office at 256-233-8215.

Guy McClure
Guy.McClure@athens.edu
256-233-8296
August 31, 2011
www.athens.edu