Reporter Volume 25, No.29 June 13, 1994

By JED NITZBERG
Reporter Contributor
The retired chairman of Kraft, a 1943 graduate of UB, has given the
university $1 million for a scholarship fund for student-athletes.
Arthur W. Woelfle, Jr. created the new fund to help young athletes
meeting specific academic standards prove themselves in the classroom,
as well as on the playing field.
	The Arthur W. Woelfle, Jr. Athletic Scholarship Fund is named
in honor of the donor, who said his major motivation in creating the
fund is to express his thanks to people who showed faith in his
academic and athletic abilities when he was a student at UB by
providing him with financial and moral support. During his years at
UB, Woelfle earned varsity letters as a member of the football team.
	President William R. Greiner praised Woelfle, noting that "his
achievements, both during his days as a top scholar-athlete at UB and
throughout his career as an international corporate leader, are a
sterling example for our most talented student athletes. His
confidence in UB sports, UB students and UB programs is immeasurably
valuable to the university.
	"We are extremely fortunate to be able to count Mr. Woelfle
among the university's most distinguished alumni and valued friends,"
Greiner added. "One of the most important examples that he sets, by
making this remarkable gift, is that of giving something back, as a
tribute to those who helped him during his own student days. We will
encourage every Woelfle Scholar-Athlete to develop a similar
understanding that helping others can be an invaluable investment in
the future."
	Woelfle said he believes that academics and athletics are both
important.J Academics are crucial to your career, and competitive
athletics develops teamwork and self-confidence, which are helpful in
almost any profession," he said. "I attribute part of my success to
athletics and going to a good school."
	He feels strongly that more people should make
contributionsQwhether monetary or through volunteer serviceQin
recognition of their own successes. "I've reaped the fruits of others
investing in my abilities. I think other people who have been
similarly successful should share with others who are deserving,"
Woelfle said.
	Nelson Townsend, director of the UB Division of Athletics,
said he is pleased with the strong links that exist between Woelfle
and UB and its sports program. "Woelfle shares UB's vision for the
future development of the athletic program and what it can do for the
university," said Townsend.
	Over the years, both students and faculty have benefited from
Woelfle's efforts for the university. He was one of the first people
to be approached for, and to accept, a place on the UB Board of
Visitors, a new group of voluntary advisors who will work closely with
President Greiner.
	It is expected that Woelfle's gift will generate four or five
scholarships annually. They will be awarded to deserving, first-year
student-athletes, who will be required to maintain a minimum
grade-point average of 2.5 in order to retain them.
	 Townsend said the gift is indicative of growing alumni
support of UB's athletics. Such scholarships, he said, "are crucial
for attracting excellent student-athletes who can help UB compete
nationally at the Division I level."
	Woelfle's gift is being made to UB through a "life income
arrangement." This allows the donor to transfer the money to a
qualified charitable trust fund, and receive life income from the
trust. After the death of the donor, the money in the trust benefits
the university.