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February 16, 2006

ULM Supporters Donate $100,000

Impressed with the continued progress at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, Bruce and Liz Boulware reconnected with Bruce’s alma matter three years ago. Their most recent vote of confidence in ULM is a $100,000 gift that will help close budget gaps and offset recent hurricane devastation.

Bruce, a 1969 ULM graduate in accounting, is the Chief Operating Officer of O’Melveny & Myers, LLP, the nation’s 15th largest law firm. ULM, which was a catalyst for his impressive professional success, is vital to this region and economy, he said.

“We (Bruce and wife Liz) continue to be very impressed with the progress being made at ULM. The hurricanes created extremely difficult conditions. Those of us who have resources need to dig as deep as we can to provide assistance,” he said. “This is a year to dig deeper.”

Bruce and Liz, who participated in ULM’s College of Business Symposium in October 2005, have also maintained ongoing mentoring with ULM’s students.

“It’s not just about writing checks. We’ve tried to be active with the College of Business, bolster leadership and look for ways to create opportunities for students,” Bruce said.

Liz, a board member of the Queen of the Valley Hospital in Napa, Calif., has also been personally helping a New Orleans family adjust to life after the hurricanes. She believes it is essential to reach out to students.

“I like having the direct connection with the students by mentoring and sharing personal experiences with them. It gets them energized for professional opportunities after they graduate. I encourage them to be more than they thought they could be.”

That sort of outreach, along with the recent financial gift, is important to ULM, President James E. Cofer Sr. said.

“Bruce and Liz exemplify commitment to education and to community. They have been generous with not only their treasure, but also their time and talents.”

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