The Jim Graham Adventure Fund for Off Campus Travel, an initiative envisioned by two Central College alumni and Board of Trustee members, reached $240,240 within its first few months and will support faculty-led off-campus programs and international study opportunities.

Dan De Cook, a 1995 Central graduate and CEO of Heritage Lace, and Shannan Mattiace, a 1990 Central graduate and professor of political science at Allegheny College, wanted to honor former academic dean and longtime professor of English at Central Jim Graham. The two worked closely with Kathy Cashen Thompson, a 1987 Central graduate and senior major gifts officer for Central, while Graham was living. Since Graham’s passing on February 24th, 2025, the account has grown with memorials. The fund provides ongoing support for students participating in off-campus experiences. 

Graham had served Central for 48 years, including 13 years as academic dean in the 1960s and early 1970s. He was also an associate professor of English and coached women’s tennis and volleyball. As dean, Graham oversaw the launch of Central’s study abroad programs, a milestone in the college’s commitment to international education. His wife, Martha Betancourt, associate professor emerita of Spanish, welcomed dozens of Spanish language assistants to campus and promoted language and literature studies.

To support the legacy of Graham through the adventure fund, find a link here or call 641-628-5154. A Celebration of Life for Graham will be held from 2-4 pm on Saturday, May 31st in the Boat, Moore, Weller Rooms in Maytag Student Center on Central’s campus.