J.J. Keller Donates $1 Million To UW-Oshkosh

The founders of J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. of Neenah have made the largest gift to the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh in the campus’ 133-year history: $1 million.

The gift from John J. “Jack” and Ethel D. Keller, facilitated through their donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, was made in recognition of the associates employed at J. J. Keller.

The Kellers said the gift reflects the company’s long tradition of support for the community and education and also recognizes the fact that over the years hundreds of associates employed at J. J. Keller have graduated from UW-Oshkosh.

“Our growth has come about because of our associates,” said J. J. Keller CEO and President Robert L. Keller, a 1969 graduate of UW-Oshkosh. “We look for special people and have found many at UW-Oshkosh, where graduates have the critical-thinking, communications and team-building skills we need.”

In recognition of the gift, Titan Stadium will be renamed J. J. Keller Field at Titan Stadium. The gift supports the Oshkosh Sports Complex Capital Campaign, a $5.7-million project involving UW-Oshkosh, Oshkosh Area School District and Unified Catholic Schools.

The premier, multi-sport facility will host up to 190 university and community events a year and generate up to $25 million in additional tourism revenue.

“We deeply appreciate the support this generous gift provides for the university, the community and the region,” said Chancellor Richard H. Wells. “This is further evidence that the Fox Valley is increasingly aware of the value of this institution and its graduates.”

UW-Oshkosh Foundation President Thomas Keefe said the J. J. Keller gift is the latest and most significant addition to a growing wave of private support for the university and its foundation.

“Educational excellence requires committed community leaders,” Keefe said. “The Kellers have shown themselves to be just such leaders.”
J. J. Keller has maintained a close relationship with UW-Oshkosh. It’s a member of the university’s Wisconsin Family Business Forum and works closely with UW-Oshkosh Career Services to provide internships and jobs.

Founded in 1953, J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. has grown to employ more than 1,000 associates and earned a reputation as a leading business resource for safety and regulatory solutions. The company serves more than 275,000 customers nationwide in many industries, including transportation, industrial/manufacturing, environmental, distribution, chemical manufacturing, construction, food safety, human resources and mining.

“I’m proud J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc. has such a great partnership with this university,” said James J. Keller, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “It’s an outstanding relationship that benefits us both.”