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NEW PALTZ, N.Y. – The Department of Athletics, Wellness & Recreation at the State University of New York at New Paltz received a travel fund endowment check totaling $310,000 from the Sheppard Family in a ceremony held in the lobby of the Athletic & Wellness Center on Wednesday afternoon.

President Donald Christian, Senior Development Officer Nick Rama and family friend of Doug & Audrey Sheppard Dave Lent spoke on behalf of the gift from the Sheppard family.

Stuart Robinson, the Director of Athletics, Wellness & Recreation, explained to the crowd of alumni, staff and student athletes how the Sheppard family felt about New Paltz.

"This fund will enable our student-athletes to have the privilege to compete against nationally and regionally ranked teams, to travel to foreign countries and experience something else that makes New Paltz special," Robinson stated. "We are so thrilled that this gift will enable us to do that."

"Knowing Doug & Audrey, I think it's a fitting tribute that they gave this gift in honor of their sons, Douglas Stephen and Jeffrey Hamilton, and have created a legacy that will enhance our athletic opportunities in the future."