NIC Press Release
Indianapolis Philanthropists Win Award
Two of Indianapolis' outstanding citizens will be recognized as the year's top philanthropists on Friday, September 13, 2002 by the North-American Interfraternity Conference Foundation (NICF). Tom and Betty Lofton will be recognized for their extreme generosity to the Sigma Nu Fraternity Foundation and the Pi Beta Phi Women's Fraternity. Mr. Lofton is a graduate of Indiana University and Mrs. Lofton is a graduate of Butler University. The Lofton's will be recognized at the Awards of Distinction Reception and Dinner to be held at the Indiana State Museum on Friday, September 13, 2002 at 6:00 pm.
"The Greek community and their respective organizations are better and stronger because of their care and involvement," said E.G. White, Chairman of the NICF Foundation Section. "The Lofton's inspire others to lead," he continued.
The numerouse awards nominations for the Lofton's all comment on the genuineness of the Lofton's involvement and contributions. "They both define the character, the values, and the compassion that humankind strives to achieve," White comments.
Tom Lofton has had a brilliant career in the legal profession, recognized as the pre-eminent scholars and practitioners in the areas of Tax Exempt Organizations, Estate Planning, Trust Law, and Fraternal Law. Mr. Lofton later became chairman of the Eli Lilly Endowment in 1994.
Mr. Lofton is actively involved in the Sigma Nu Foundation as well. When asked why he continues to support Sigma Nu and the Sigma Nu Foundation, his response was "I value education very highly. I believe that Sigma Nu Fraternity has been an essential part of my education. To defray the costs of education for others may be a worthwhile thing to do."
Betty Lofton has been an active leader within Pi Beta Phi women's fraternity, serving in a variety of leadership positions throughout the years, including serving as President of the Pi Beta Phi Foundation. "Betty not only volunteers her time and energy to support our philanthropies, she is extremely generous with her gifts. Her gifts and dedication inspire others to give and support the foundation," Carol Warren, Pi Beta Phi Foundation Treasurer said.
Mrs. Lofton also serves as a Trustee of Butler University.
Finally, the Lofton's generosity and involvement is felt far beyond Indiana. White summarized that the impact is "felt around the nation every day by many 'brothers and sisters' who have benefited from the many scholarships and leadership finds they have established."
Another reception honoring the award recipients will be held at a private reception at the Governor's Residence on Saturday.