Kirksville Native Makes Second Six-Figure Commitment to Severns Theatre Project

Gail B. Crump of Warrensburg, Mo., a native of Kirksville, has made the second $100,000 plus commitment to an initiative to name the main performance facility in Ophelia Parrish after emeritus professor James G. Severns.

Crump’s gift includes a cash pledge of $30,000 and a planned gift, through the Joseph Baldwin Society, valued at $115,000.

A campaign to generate at least $300,000 for naming rights to the theatre, constructed in 2000, is being organized as lead gifts are received. Steve Rose, a 1969 graduate, recently made a $100,000 gift to the project.

Crump graduated from Truman in 1964 with Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Education degrees. He received his Master of Arts degree in 1965 and his Doctor of Philosophy degree in 1970 from the University of Arkansas. He is currently professor of English at Central Missouri State University.

As a student Crump, along with his late twin brother, Gary A. Crump (also a ’64 Truman graduate) participated in theatre performances in virtually every capacity. Gail also directed two all-school productions under the supervision of Severns.
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