One donors' story: charles and kathleen hoogland
The University of Illinois at Springfield’s reputation is intricately connected to local residents who are concerned not only with advancing knowledge and social justice, but who care deeply about the future of our community.
Charles and Kathleen Hoogland are the kind of supporters whose strong local ties – and forward thinking about our community – are sparking the phenomenal growth of our university.
A Visionary
Charles was born in Springfield and attended grade school and high school in Springfield. After graduating from Yale and serving in the U.S. Navy, he returned to Springfield, married, and raised four children.
He then helped transform the video distribution channel of his father’s appliance business into Family Video, the largest privately owned video-rental business in the country, employing over 5,000 people.
The Hooglands have generously contributed to Sangamon Auditorium, helping to bring world-class performing arts to Springfield. They also supported the Center for the Arts in Springfield, later named the Hoogland Center for the Arts.
The Hoogland Atrium
And when you walk into UIS’ new facility, The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC), you’ll immediately see another gift they have given UIS—The Hoogland Atrium.
TRAC, with its 3,000 seat gymnasium, game courts, running track, and fully equipped exercise rooms has become the first permanent building at UIS dedicated primarily to student life, and it’s entirely fitting that the Hoogland name is featured so prominently.
Kay and Charles have always been active and committed to staying in shape. According to Charles, he and Kay "wanted to make it easier for students to relax and stay fit. It might help us attract students, and maybe boost our team sports. Any town of our size should have great sports facilities. It gives the town, and the students, a lot more spirit.”
Charles firmly believes that “anything that helps the city grow will help the school grow, and anything that helps the school grow will help the city grow.”
