Why I Give

Why I Give Scott Pickrell

by M. Blake Harrison

Philanthropy is in Scott Pickrell's DNA. It's something he learned from his mother, the late Joyce S. Taylor.

Taylor, who passed away on Thanksgiving morning 2019, was a generous friend to Wesleyan as well as Shriners Hospitals for Children, In Touch Ministries and her local church.

"I told Mom before she passed away that I would honor everything she was doing – continue her legacy," Pickrell said. He has stayed true to his word.

The Joyce S. Taylor Memorial Fund was endowed by Pickrell in February. Earnings from the fund will go toward the greatest needs of the College, such as scholarships. Pickrell also supports the Wesleyan Scholarship Fund, Panther Athletic Fund, the athletics department endowment and several athletics programs. He's a proud member of the President's Circle and Heritage Society, which recognizes benefactors who have remembered Wesleyan in their estate plans.

"I've been truly blessed," he said. "I want to help others who may need it. The people at Wesleyan have always been kind and welcomed me, and I feel like part of the family. I have a big heart, and I'm happy to give."

He even helps serve meals to student-athletes during holiday breaks.

Pickrell's relationship with Wesleyan dates back to the 1960s at the Sportscenter. His mother used to drop him off at basketball games, then she would listen to Joel Utley's call from their home. Scott's studies at the University of Cincinnati and later his career at Texas Gas kept him away

from Owensboro for many years, but he's been a season ticket holder and fixture behind the basket since Wayne Boultinghouse roamed the sideline for the Panthers.

KWC basketball became a family affair. Scott and his late uncle, Gary Pickrell, reconnected through Panther hoops and their love for his uncle's restaurant, Gary's Drive-In.

"We fell out of touch for a long time, but when I moved back to Owensboro, I started going to Gary's often," Scott said. "Gary and I became close, with KWC tying us even closer. He was my best friend."

Wesleyan is blessed by and proud of the fact that many bonds have been formed and strengthened with the College at the center. Scott Pickrell can attest to that.

"I have many friends at KWC, past and present," he said. "I enjoy making new friends and want to continue helping Wesleyan, student-athletes and others where I can."