A former high school Spanish teacher and University of Toledo graduate gave $1 million to the education college at her alma mater.

Janet Keller, who received a bachelor of education degree in 1960 and a master of education degree in 1964, said she made the gift because of her love for UT.

The donation from Mrs. Keller and her husband, the Rev. Gerald Keller, of Wadsworth, Ohio, also marks the 100th anniversary of the Judith Herb College of Education.

“We wanted to do something to help others,” Mrs. Keller said in a written statement. “I had a wonderful career as a teacher, and I want to help others have that opportunity. We want to see more students become good teachers.”

In 1985, the couple established a fund in honor of Mrs. Keller’s parents to pay for scholarships and other education college priorities.

UT spokesman Meghan Cunningham said 40 percent of the new, $1 million gift will be spent on scholarships, with the remaining amount to be spent at the education college’s discretion.

“The Kellers’ generosity is a fantastic example of the loyalty and generosity of UT alumni, and the important role that graduates play in supporting current and future students,” UT President Sharon Gaber said in a written statement.

Mrs. Keller taught at Whitmer High School, and was employed by Washington Local Schools from 1960-73, a district spokesman said.

The UT Foundation has received 66 gifts of $1 million or more, according to its records.

On Monday, a committee of the university’s board of trustees recommended naming a new basketball office complex after another pair of generous donors.

George and Leslie Chapman pledged $1 million to the construction of a new basketball office complex and expansion project at Savage Arena.

That work began in April and should be completed next week, when coaches plan to move into the new offices.

Mr. Chapman is the former chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Health Care REIT, now called Welltower. Mrs. Chapman is a yoga instructor and owns and operates Toledo Yoga.

Final approval for the naming of the Chapman Basketball Complex will come from the full board of trustees at a later meeting.

“We are very pleased with the gift,” athletic director Mike O’Brien told trustees Monday.

The university planned to announce more details about the project today.

Contact Vanessa McCray at: vmccray@theblade.com or 419-724-6065, or on Twitter @vanmccray.

First Published October 11, 2016, 4:00 a.m.