Rockford couple donates $15 million to Valparaiso U.

VALPARAISO, Ind. — A couple from Rockford, Ill., is donating $15 million to Valparaiso University to pay for improvements on the school's landmark chapel.

Valparaiso University officials say the gift by the Rev. Mark and Kathy Helge is one of the largest in the Lutheran-affiliated university school's history. They also say it will ensure the preservation of the Chapel of the Resurrection in the center of campus.

The school says part of the money will be used to add about 9,000 square feet to the chapel to provide meeting and office space. The money also will be used to expand access to those with disabilities, to add technology and to maintain the clear nave windows.

The Helges graduated in 1971 from Valparaiso University. The school has about 4,000 students.