DelVal University Receives 7-Figure Gift to Support Library Renovation

DOYLESTOWN, PA ? The Krauskopf Memorial Library on the campus of the Delaware Valley University will undergo major renovations thanks to a $1.2 million gift from the Daniel Tanner Foundation.

Dr. Daniel Tanner, who passed away in September 2023 at the age of 97, was a 1946 alumnus of the National Farm School (now Delaware Valley University) and had served as a DelVal trustee from 1981 to 1995.

"This donation from Dr. Tanner will allow us to make much-needed improvements and renovations to our library in time for its centennial celebration," shared DelVal President Dr. Benjamin Rusiloski. "Rabbi Krauskopf was committed to providing current and accessible learning opportunities for our students. This generous contribution gives us the opportunity to do just that."

In 2024, the Krauskopf Memorial Library is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The library is the heart of the campus and a focal point for both current and prospective students. As libraries across higher education evolve into multi-functional spaces in response to the changing expectations and needs of today's students, The Daniel Tanner Foundation's investment will allow DelVal to provide students with a contemporary space that inspires teaching and learning, enhances engagement, builds community, and supports their success.

The gift will address needs such as reconfiguring the lobby and adjoining rooms to maximize the spaces for student use. The result will be an inspiring gathering place for collaborative work with updated layout, flooring, lighting, furniture and technology.

The library renovations are part of the university's ongoing work to modernize, enhance, and
ensure consistency in the teaching, learning and gathering spaces across campus, and will make a significant difference to the DelVal community.

After graduating from the National Farm School, Dr. Tanner went on to earn degrees from Michigan State University and Ohio State University and to serve on the faculties of Purdue and Northwestern Universities. He retired as professor emeritus from Rutgers University, Graduate School of Education, where he taught from 1966-2010 and where he established the doctoral program in Curriculum Studies. Over the course of his career, he authored more than a dozen books on education and numerous articles in professional journals.

Dr. Tanner established his foundation in 2010 with investments from his book royalties. Since its inception, the foundation has supported hands-on curriculum programs, publications, national conferences, and research grants.

"We are pleased to support the renovation of the Krauskopf Memorial Library at Delaware Valley University," said Tatyana Podstrelova, president of The Daniel Tanner Foundation, Inc. "Dr. Tanner was very involved with the details of this donation prior to his passing, as he was focused on providing students with the best possible learning tools and environment. Education was his passion."