SpringfieldNewsSun.com

SPRINGFIELD — Wittenberg University has received $1.5 million to establish an endowed chair in entrepreneurship.

Alumni Robert E. and Lynn Noble Ness said they were inspired to establish the Ness Chair in Entrepreneurship after hearing the university's recently adopted strategic plan.

Ness, is founder, chairman and CEO of the Columbus-based ODW Logistics Inc., one of the top 100 third-party logistics providers in the nation. He and Lynn graduated from Wittenberg in 1963 and 1964, respectively. Their three children also are Wittenberg graduates. The university's Ness Family Auditorium, located in Hollenbeck Hall, was a gift from the family.

"As Lynn and I reflect on our wonderful experience at Wittenberg, we look forward to the opportunity to provide a program for aspiring students, as well as a program that provides the sons and daughters of entrepreneurs a curriculum that encourages second-generation business succession," Bob Ness said.

"(The Ness) generosity is legendary at Wittenberg," said David Long, Wittenberg's executive director of university advancement. "They live and breathe the university."

The Ness Chair in Entrepreneurship is one of several business program initiatives that include the newly established East Asian Studies Institute, the East Asian Studies Program and student-run businesses under the Witt Enterprises program.

In addition to providing a stipend and program/research support, an endowed chair represents one of the most prestigious achievements for college faculty members at American universities.

"We are deeply moved by the sincere generosity of Bob and Lynn to create the Ness Endowed Chair in Entrepreneurship," said Wittenberg President Mark Erickson.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0347 or kmori@coxohio.com.