Franklin banker Leon Page was honored by Western Kentucky University as part of National Leon Page Philanthropy Day in November. According to Tom Hiles, WKU’s vice president for Development & Alumni Relations, National Philanthropy Day allows us to pay tribute to the contributions that philanthropy has made in our personal lives, our local communities, and our nation.
"This nationwide celebration allows us to recognize those who have given freely of themselves to enrich the lives of others," Hiles said. "Through these activities, we honor those who have made significant contributions of time and resources to Western and by so doing enhance the quality of life in our community."
Leon and his wife, Lassie, were founding employees of the Franklin Bank & Trust Company, where he now serves as Chairman of the Board. Leon is a graduate of the Bowling Green Business University, forerunner to WKU’s Gordon Ford College of Business.
Leon Page made the very first seven-figure gift in WKU’s history to establish the Leon Page Professorship in Banking and Financial Planning and the Leon Page Endowed Scholarship. As a member of WKU's Campaign Cabinet, he helped procure more than $102 million during the Investing in the Spirit Campaign. He also holds memberships on the President’s Board of Advisors and is currently Chair of the WKU Foundation Board of Directors.
The giving spirit of Leon and Lassie Page was recently underscored when they made a $100,000 commitment to the Lady Topper Basketball Program.
“Leon and I have been supporters of the Lady Toppers since Mary Taylor Cowles came on board,” Lassie Page said. “We are very passionate about the program and look forward to seeing Diddle Arena filled to capacity with their supporters. We know in the future the Lady Toppers can compete with the best.”
Leon Page said, “We have full confidence in Coach Cowles and the entire staff, having observed their work ethic and seen the enthusiasm and close relationship that exists among the players and the coaching staff. We want to be a part of seeing the girls mature both athletically and academically.”
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