University of Georgia

Annual Report

Students sit and walk near a tall fountain framed by red autumn trees on campus

2026 Annual Report

Profiles

Doug and Kay Ivester

“There are a few decisions that critically set the course of our lives. The top two: No. 1 is marrying Kay about two weeks after finishing my coursework at UGA. The second is earning my degree at the University of Georgia. Early in our marriage, Kay and I started giving to the University, at first in small amounts. But UGA has earned our support, and we are honored to have our names associated with UGA.”

Doug and Kay Ivester stand together on a brick courtyard in front of an ornate iron gate

Building UGA’s Future

Doug BBA ’69 and Kay Ivester are among UGA’s most transformative benefactors. In spring 2026, Doug honored his wife with the naming of the Victoria Kay Ivester School of Nursing, marking a historic milestone in healthcare education at the University. The naming recognizes gifts from Doug Ivester and the Melvin Douglas and Victoria Kay Ivester Foundation totaling $20.5 million to create an endowment benefiting the school. Doug and Kay also provided a matching gift with the UGA Foundation to support scholarships at the new School of Medicine.

The Ivesters’ legacy was already well established on campus through Ivester Hall and the M. Douglas and V. Kay Ivester Institute for Business Analytics and Insights. They are deeply committed to Hall County students through Georgia Commitment Scholarships, medical scholarships, and study abroad opportunities through the Deer Run Global Fellows Scholarship. Through leadership retreats and personal mentorship, the Ivesters ensure their name remains synonymous with UGA’s mission of leadership and student success.