New WKU building named Amy and David Chandler Hall

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A new building for the Gordon Ford College of Business is being named Amy and David Chandler Hall.

According to a release by Western Kentucky University, the naming was made on Friday, Aug. 8 in recognition of a commitment of $7.5 million from the Chandlers.

“We are extremely thankful for the gift from Amy and David Chandler to support this new facility,” WKU President Timothy C. Caboni said. “Their gift ensures a lasting legacy—one that will inspire current and future Hilltoppers while enriching the vibrant community the Chandlers proudly call home. Their leadership and success in their respective fields are only matched by their leadership and passion to give back to their community.”

“Western Kentucky University holds a special place of pride in our hearts,” David Chandler said. “It’s where we discovered our passion for business and built the foundation for our future. We are honored to be able to support the construction of the new home of the Gordon Ford College of Business with this gift, which reflects our belief in the power of education to transform lives.”

“We hope this investment helps provide students at WKU with the tools, opportunities and leadership skills they need to succeed,” Amy Hale Chandler said. “And we hope they use those attributes to pursue their own giving opportunities for the benefit of others, just as we once dreamed of doing as students at WKU.”

Amy Hale Chandler, a lifelong resident of Bowling Green, earned a degree in political science from WKU in 1993. She launched her legal career as assistant Warren County attorney in 1996 and made history in 2004 by becoming the first woman elected as Warren County attorney. Renowned across the state for her leadership in justice reform and community involvement, she has served on numerous boards and committees, including her role as president of the Kentucky Association of Counties.

David Chandler, a proud WKU alumnus, earned a science degree in 1982 and went on to build a distinguished career in business and community development. A native of Owasso, Okla., his entrepreneurial spirit brought him to south central Kentucky, where he established a thriving business career marked by strong leadership and civic impact.

Dr. Evelyn Thrasher, dean of the Gordon Ford College of Business, said she is deeply grateful for the generous gift from Amy and David Chandler and their continued commitment to the College.

“Their investment is a testament to their belief in the power of education and its ability to transform lives,” Dr. Thrasher said. “This support allows us to further enhance the student experience, invest in our outstanding faculty and staff, and strengthen the programs that prepare the next generation of business leaders. Their partnership is helping to shape a brighter future for our college and the communities we serve.”

The Chandlers’ philanthropy encompasses a wide range of causes, from WKU athletics and academics to the Chandler Memorial Chapel and other community efforts.

“In addition to their generosity to the University, including 40 consecutive years of giving, Amy and David have also dedicated their time and leadership to many WKU initiatives,” said Amanda Trabue, Vice President for Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement. “We are thankful for their partnership and continued investment in the future of business education on the Hill.”

Amy and David Chandler Hall will be dedicated on Friday, Sept. 19 at 10 a.m. Several additional philanthropic named spaces within the new facility were also approved by the WKU Board of Regents on Aug. 8.

A full list of donors will be released during the celebration in September.