Quillens Receive UVA Wise Gift of Distinction Honors

On Saturday, the University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA Wise) honored Mike and Debbie Quillen with the UVA Wise Gift of Distinction for donating to positively impact the College and its community. 

In the spring of this year, Mike and Debbie Quillen made a $1 million gift to the College. In recognition of their gift, The Quillen Court at the David J. Prior Convocation Center was named. The Quillen’s’ generosity funded many student needs at UVA Wise. 

“Debbie and I have been supporting UVA Wise for many years, back to Clinch Valley College days, and are happy to be able to contribute to the continuing advancement and success,” says Mike.

For this transformational gift, the Quillen’s have become part of the Legacy Leaders, an honor which recognizes donors who have given $1,000,000 or more during the Honor the Future Campaign. Their names have been added to the 1954 Crockett Society Donor Wall, located behind the Chancellor’s Box at the Prior Center. 

Not only the College, but the region is positively impacted by the Quillens and their generosity to campus. Mike grew up in Gate City, Virginia, and has won numerous leadership awards, served on the UVA Wise College Board, and leads several local businesses that support the College by providing internships to students. 

“Mike has dedicated decades of time, talent and gifts to the College and region, and we couldn’t be more honored for his family’s name to appear on the court at the Prior Center,” says UVA Wise Chancellor Donna P. Henry. “This is one more step forward for UVA Wise and our community.”

Rhonda Perkins, Co-Chair of the Honor the Future Campaign remarks, “I had the opportunity to work with Mike Quillen for many years and he is one of the most humble individuals I know. In making the gift, it was important to Mike that everyone understand that he was making the gift on behalf of his family, his wife Debbie, their children and grandchildren, and his work family - the men and women that he worked alongside throughout his years in the energy industry."

The Quillens’ gifts have provided an immediate impact for the most pressing needs. These types of gifts support unique opportunities and ideas where funding isn’t always available. 

“When giving, we want to contribute to the success of students and the community. Giving back to the people that have worked alongside of us is a big focus,” says Debbie Quillen.