A reception and film documentary screening of “A Mighty Legacy,” honoring the enduring influence of Auburn University football coach Pat Dye was held on September 20 at the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center and Langdon Hall. Guests included Auburn University President Chris Roberts, Auburn Mayor Ron Anders, Senior Vice President for Advancement Rob Wellbaum and 200 other attendees, friends and stakeholders, including Coach’s daughter, Wanda. Proceeds from the viewing of the documentary have been directed towards operations and enhancements of Coach Dye’s Crooked Oaks Farm.
Coach Pat Dye, along with his longtime partner Dr. Nancy McDonald, developed the 415-acre property for nature exploration, study and Auburn University student education. In July of this year, Pat Dye’s Crooked Oaks property was entrusted to Auburn University’s College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE). When not in use for private events, Crooked Oaks will serve as a venue for student experiential learning, research and community outreach for the CFWE. Students in the new Wildlife Enterprise Management undergraduate program will gain hands-on learning in wildlife habitat management, hunting facility management, lodge operations and other educational opportunities.
“Crooked Oaks offers the spirit of true Southern hospitality.” said Janaki Alavalapati, the Emmett F. Thompson Dean of the College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment. “Our college looks forward to continuing Coach Dye’s legacy and sustaining his mission and passions through experiential learning for our students on his cherished property. We are grateful to Coach Dye and Dr. McDonald for their generosity and for entrusting the legacy of Crooked Oaks with us.”
Numerous opportunities are available for the Auburn community to be engaged with ongoing and future initiatives at Crooked Oaks. These opportunities encompass various activities, including corporate retreats, event hosting and tours to explore the gardens and nursery. Naming opportunities are available within the facility and support is welcomed for academic programs, research projects and outreach activities. For more information regarding contributions and participation in Crooked Oaks initiatives, contact CFWE Director of Development Heather Crozier at vannhea@auburn.edu.
For those interested in watching the documentary, it will be broadcast on APTV at 8 p.m. tonight, Sept 25, 2023. https://aptv.org/
(Written by Allison Killingsworth)
Photography credit to Auburn University Photographic Services
