Couple donates nearly $2 million to UF to help

William and Robbie HedgesGAINESVILLE, Fla.—Throughout their teaching careers that began after World War II, William and Robbie Hedges noticed how little help was available for normal but slightly slower-learning students at their schools. Now, the Hedges are committing nearly $2 million to the University of Florida College of Education to help marginal students in modern-day schools get the extra attention they need.

The $1.925 million contribution was the second largest ever made to the college.

The gift from the retired Gainesville couple was made in the form of a charitable remainder trust that establishes The William D. and Robbie F. Hedges Research Fund. The Hedges funded the trust through the sale of family-owned real estate. The trust will support sorely needed studies to develop better teaching methods and curriculum materials for students who fall behind, become discouraged and tend to drop out of school before graduation.

Throughout their teaching careers that began after World War II, William and Robbie Hedges noticed how little help was available for normal but slightly slower-learning students at their schools. Now, the Hedges are committing nearly $2 million to the UF College of Education to help marginal students in modern-day schools get the extra attention they need.

Bill and Robbie Hedges, shown with UF President Bernie Machen (L) and COE Dean Catherine Emihovich (R).

/by