Couple donates $100,000 to MOC
By News-Argus Staff
Published in News on July 25, 2007 1:45 PM
Ray Amon grew up on a tenant farm in Duplin County more than 70 years ago. But he learned early on that he wanted more out of life.
Although his family was unable to afford to send him to college, he was ambitious enough to carve out a successful life, dabbling in real estate, the furniture industry, automotive business and even grocery stores.
"I was never scared to try something new," he said.
He credits former Mount Olive College President Dr. Burkette Raper with planting a seed of hope and faith nearly 45 years ago, that has finally blossomed.
Recently he and wife Chris donated $100,000 to the college, to be used for improvements in its soccer program. Chief among them will be the addition of lights to the soccer field. In return, MOC will honor the couple with naming rights to the field.
A dedication ceremony is planned on Aug. 24, the first home soccer game to be played under the new lights.
Although denied the opportunity to attend college himself, Amon is a firm believer in the need for young people to get a good education. So it was only natural that when it came time to give, MOC would be the beneficiary.
Jerry Riggs, men's head soccer coach, said the department is grateful for the gift to the athletic program.
"Having lights on our field will be a tremendous asset in our recruiting efforts, in our ability to be more flexible in scheduling games and practices and basically bringing a new element of excitement to fall sports," he said. "It will give more parents the opportunity to come out and enjoy the games as well as hopefully garnering more community support."