Washington State University’s Marion Ownbey Herbarium has received a bequest of $1 million intended to establish the Heebner Endowed Sustaining Directorship, funded by Charles and Beverly Heebner.

The Ownbey Herbarium, which has been operational for 133 years, houses significant plant materials collected from the Palouse region. The Heebners have identified the herbarium as a key location for conservation, education, and scientific research.

Both Charles and Beverly Heebner developed an interest in nature and plant life during their childhoods in Connecticut. They pursued academic degrees in zoology and botany before moving to Pullman. Charles completed his PhD in Plant Physiology at WSU in 1970, while Beverly worked with the Plant Pathology department.

The funds from their bequest are intended to provide ongoing financial support for staffing and various programs at the herbarium.