SPRINGFIELD, Mo., December 4, 2025 – Drury University recently received a $4,000 grant from the Stanley & Elaine Ball Foundation, managed by Central Trust Company, a division of The Central Trust Bank. The funds will be used to enhance educational opportunities and support disadvantaged children in Springfield by funding books, materials and light snacks for participating students involved in the Evening Reading Clinic.
“We are deeply grateful to the Ball Foundation for their generous support, which will provide essential books and supplies to enrich learning experiences for our students and the K-12 learners they serve,” Drury Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Beth Harville said.
The Evening Reading Clinic has long provided critical literacy support to the Springfield community. The program pairs elementary students with Drury practicum students for one-on-one reading and writing instruction. It offers struggling students additional help beyond the classroom, while giving Drury students practical experience in teaching literacy.
“It is so important to have books that students can connect with on a personal level and are relevant for their studies,” Distinguished Professor of Education Dr. Laurie Edmondson said. “We want to instill a love of reading and encourage them to be lifelong learners. This grant provides valuable resources that help all students succeed. We are so grateful to the Ball Foundation for supporting our work.”
For more information on how to assist the Evening Reading Clinic, please reach out to Drury’s Office of Advancement at (417) 873-7258 or advancement@drury.edu.
About the Stanley & Elaine Ball Foundation
The Stanley & Elaine Ball Foundation was established by businessman Stanley Ball, who was deeply committed to improving his community and supporting those in need. After Stanley’s wife, Elaine, passed away in 2005, he founded the foundation with a substantial portion of his estate to continue their shared vision of helping disadvantaged individuals and enhancing education, especially for children. Central Trust Company proudly manages the foundation, ensuring its lasting impact on the communities Stanley and Elaine loved. A total of 72 applications were received in 2025, and grants were awarded to 44 recipients, totaling a community investment of nearly $300,000. Requirements for grant applicants included the organization’s ability to enhance educational opportunities and/or provide support for disadvantaged children.
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Media Contact: Cris Belvin, Director of University Communications & Media Relations | (417) 873-7392 | gbelvin@drury.edu