In a ceremony on the Troy University campus Saturday, members of the Troy University leadership and the Troy University Foundation Board of Directors officially received a $3.6 million gift from Dr. Manuel H. “Manley” Johnson, BB&T and the Charles G. Koch Charitable Foundation. The gifted funds will be used to form a new center for policy research designed to advance the understanding of economic freedom.

The Center will be part of the University’s Sorrell College of Business and will be housed inside Bibb Graves Hall, which is currently undergoing extensive restoration and expansion. Dr. Scott Beaulier has been named executive director of the center.

Johnson, a Troy University alumnus and former vice chairman of the Federal Reserve System board of governors, said he envisions the center becoming a leading voice in economic scholarship and research.

“The creation of this center allows me to invest in economic education and Troy University, both of which played very important roles in my life.” Johnson said.

“My vision is that this center will become an important source of academic excellence that furthers the transformation of Troy University in the areas of business, economics and economic development. With the University’s global focus, this center is well positioned to become a leader in the arena of international economic scholarship.”

Troy University Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. said the new center is an important milestone for the University’s college of business.

“The research, insight and teaching provided by the Manuel H. Johnson Center will strengthen our business program and put Troy University at the forefront of economic study,” Hawkins said. “We are grateful for the support provided by Dr. Johnson, BB&T and the Koch Foundation.”