By Caleb Harris, student news writer

CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. - The Campbellsville University Advancement Board presented the 2011 Derby Rose Gala Award for Distinguished Service to Dr. J. Chester and Betty Porter of Mt. Washington, Ky.

The couple, both of whom are graduates of Campbellsville University, have committed themselves to Christian higher education for multiple years, according to Benji Kelly, vice president for development who served as master of ceremonies for the event for the third annual Derby Rose Gala.

“Dr. Porter has been significant in helping Campbellsville University move forward with his leadership on the Board of Trustees and as a major donor to Campbellsville University,” Kelly said.

“His commitment to Campbellsville University over the past 25 years makes him worthy of receiving this Derby Rose Gala Award,” he said.

It was also announced at the gala that the School of Economics and Business program at Campbellsville University will be known as The J. Chester Porter-Maria L. Bouvette School of Business and Economics.

Porter, a 1962 graduate of Campbellsville University and a 1966 graduate of the University of Louisville where he received his juris doctorate degree, is the chairman of the board and general counsel for PBI Bank. He also serves as a director of two affiliated banks.

Porter has worked in the banking industry for over 27 years and has practiced as an attorney for over 30 years.

Since 1985, he has served on Campbellsville University's Board of Trustees and executive committee. Porter has served on the University of Louisville Board of Trustees for 20 years and is the most recent chairman of the Board. He serves as chair of U of L's Foundation Board.

In the local community, Porter is a member of the Bullitt County Jaycees and is a member of the Mt. Washington Lions Club. He has also served as Bullitt County Attorney.

Porter's wife, Betty, has been just as beneficial to Campbellsville University, Kelly said.

Betty Porter, a 1963 graduate of Campbellsville University where she majored in music, has contributed much to Campbellsville University and the community, he said. She is a member of the Bullitt County Board of Education, the Library Board, the YMCA Board, and is the second vice president for the Bullitt County Women's Club. Also, Mrs. Porter has served the Kentucky Federation of Women's Clubs as the fourth district governor.

Chester and Betty Porter are members at the First Baptist Church in Mt. Washington. Mrs. Porter has taught hand bells and children's choirs at the church for over 35 years.

The couple has two children, Jack and Jennifer, and a foster daughter, LeeDean. They also have seven grandchildren.

Campbellsville University is a widely acclaimed Kentucky-based Christian university with over 3,000 students offering 63 undergraduate programs, 17 master's degrees and five postgraduate areas. The website for complete information is campbellsville.edu.