Building Fund Contribution Pushes Plans Toward Progress

Hope and Dennis Craven, of North Palm Beach, Florida, gave $200,000 to help fund the construction of the planned four-story facility, estimated to cost more than $120 million. The school's new home at the corner of Grove Loop and University Avenue will feature auditoriums and classrooms, study areas, conference rooms, and administrative and faculty office suites.

The university is recognizing the couple's gift by naming a vestibule at the building's entrance in their honor.

"The best decision I made in college was switching majors to accountancy," said Dennis Craven, a 1993 graduate. "The Patterson School of Accountancy played an integral part in my development, especially Dr. (Morris) Stocks and Dr. (Jimmy) Davis. The PSOA set me on the path to a fulfilling career."

After college, Craven began working in audit practice in the Memphis and London offices of Coopers & Lybrand – then a "Big 6" accounting firm.

As his career path evolved, Craven held various executive roles in accounting and finance. After acting as chief financial officer, he serves as chief operating officer for Chatham Lodging Trust, a publicly traded hotel real estate investment trust.

He and his wife met as cheerleaders at Ole Miss, where she majored in exercise science.

"We have been blessed since our time there, and as such, it's an honor for us to commit this gift to the accountancy building fund for what is sure to be a fantastic addition to the Ole Miss campus," Craven said.

Mark Wilder, the school's dean, expressed gratitude for the Cravens' gift.

"Our goal in the Patterson School is to ultimately become the top accountancy school in the country," he said. "This new facility will help tremendously in recruiting students, faculty and staff – and will enable the Patterson School and university to reach new heights of excellence."

To make a gift online, visit the Patterson School of Accountancy Building Fund.

For information on remaining naming opportunities or to establish an endowment, contact Jason McCormick, executive director for development, at jason@olemiss.edu or 662-915-1757.

Top: UM alumni Dennis (left) and Hope (second from right) Craven visit their sons William (second from left) and Lucas while in town for an Ole Miss football game on campus. The Cravens have contributed $200,000 toward a new home for the Patterson School of Accountancy. Submitted photo