Ashland University dedicates new Schar Plaza named in honor of historic donors

Ashland University has dedicated its new Schar Plaza in honor of Dwight and Martha Shaw, longtime university donors who have gifted a historic $20 million to transform the university’s residence halls. The couple’s lifetime support of the university totals $60 million. Schar Plaza stands outside of Amstutz Hall’s main entrance.

According to an article on Ashland University’s website, university president Dr. Jon Parrish Peede is quoted as saying of the couple’s gift, “Dwight and Martha Schar have helped shape the trajectory of Ashland University through decades of remarkable generosity and a shared vision for the university’s future. Their donation highlights their commitment to building quality housing, not only for families but also for students. This historic $20 million gift is the latest chapter in a legacy that has touched every corner of our campus, strengthening our academic and athletic programs, enhancing our facilities and enriching the student experience. We are profoundly grateful for the Schars’ lasting impact on our institution.”

The latest $20 million gift from the Schars completely transformed three of the university’s residence halls: Amstutz Hall, Jacobs Hall, and Andrews Hall. Amstutz and Jacobs Halls received complete renovations and modernizations on all nine floors and four floors, respectively, and Andrews Hall’s first floor received the same treatment.

All three residence halls have air conditioning, pod-style bathrooms, new flooring, new furniture,  and LED lighting. Amstutz Hall also received a nine-floor glass facade to provide the student living space with ample natural light. The construction on all three of the halls was completed within five months.

Speaking of his and Martha’s decision to give the university, Dwight said, “Ashland provided me with an outstanding education and experience that shaped me as an adult. I want the current and future students to have the same opportunity and the living environment that reflects the exceptional quality of the Ashland faculty, staff, coaches and academic facilities.”

Schar graduated from Ashland University in 1964 and went on to found Fortune 400 company NVR, which is the parent company to Ryan Homes, NVHomes, and Heartland Homes. It is one of the largest homebuilding companies in the country. 

With the most recent $20 million gift, the Schars’ total philanthropic support of the university has reached $60 million. Other university projects that have had support from the Schars include the Dwight Schar College of Education (2006), the Dwight Schar Athletic Complex (2010), the Dwight Schar College of Nursing and Health Sciences (2012), the Physician Assistant Studies program (2021), Clayton Hall renovations (2022), and the Lyceum Café and campus beautification initiatives (2023).

For more information about Ashland University, visit the school’s website.