Beyond the loyalty of alumni, it is meaningful when faculty feel strongly enough about their academic home to give generously. Professor Joe Martocchio is one example of this generosity.

Arriving in Champaign in 1989, young, single, and in a new community, Martocchio was welcomed warmly by then-Director Walt Franke and his wife, Pat. He remembers this fondly, as well as the academic direction and mentorship provided by Franke during his years at the then-Institute.

As a result, Joe has given generously to the building campaign to name the dean’s office in honor of Professor Franke.  “Walt gave me my chance for an academic career at a world-renowned research institution,” Martocchio recalls. “He looked after me as a new faculty member, and cared for me as a new member of the community.”

Professor Martocchio has taught Compensation from the time he arrived at LER, which is his favorite class. He has taught Statistics, Training, and Employee Benefits over the years as well. This gift towards the building is a reflection of his belief in the importance of the project. “To me, it’s important to pitch in and improve the student experience however I can.”

 “I am deeply honored to be recognized in this fashion. The School, students, faculty and staff have always meant a great deal to me, and I appreciate beyond words that Joe made a gift associating my name in a permanent way with the dean’s office. I believe strongly that this building campaign helps LER to maintain its national stature and continue to serve students in the outstanding way that we have been known for since 1946. I’m excited to see what the future holds.” - Walt Franke, LER, 1981-1994