ODU Announces $1 Million Gift from Alumnus George Dragas Jr.

A $1 million gift from George Dragas Jr. to Old Dominion University was announced at the Board of Visitors meeting, Friday, Dec. 5.

Dragas, a former board rector and ODU alumnus ('56), has designated the gift to be used for academic purposes. Acting President John R. Broderick and the Office of Development are working together to finalize details on how the gift will be utilized.

"The university is honored and delighted that George Dragas, a long-time supporter of his alma mater, continues to demonstrate his commitment to the growth and development of Old Dominion University through his generosity," Broderick said.

Dragas was a member of the Board of Visitors from 1983-91, serving as vice rector from 1988-90 and as rector in 1990-91. As vice rector, Dragas chaired the presidential search committee that selected James V. Koch in 1989.

Past donations to ODU from the Dragas family have included funding for the Dragas International Center, the Dragas Professorship in International Studies Endowment, the Center for Regional Studies (State of the Region report), and numerous other programs and initiatives.

In 1968, Dragas founded Dragas Mortgage Co. and later formed The Dragas Companies, a residential and commercial development company in Virginia Beach, in partnership with his brother, Marcus. Today, George Dragas' daughter, Helen E. Dragas, serves as president and chief executive officer of the Dragas Companies.