MSU Alumni Bob and Julie Skandalaris , who helped construct the Skandalaris Football Center in 2008 , made a $10 million donation to support Spartan athletics and push for the university-wide capital campaign .
“Donor support of Michigan State is positioning us to compete at the highest levels and to empower all students to receive a world-class education,” MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon said in a released statement. “This gift reflects the Skandalaris’ understanding of how athletics can enrich and expand a Michigan State education. We are grateful to Bob and Julie for leading the way for others to invest in building a brighter future for all those who live, learn and benefit from MSU’s programs.”
The Skandalaris’ donation is the largest single contribution MSU athletics has received. The football, golf and basketball programs will benefit from this donation, with $3 million set to be used to renovate and improve training and locker rooms in the Skandalaris Football Center . Another $4 million has been designated for Breslin Center renovation, which is currently underway. A new golf facility will be created with the remaining $3 million, according to a released statement.
“This gift from Bob and Julie is an extraordinary example of an investment in the future of Spartan athletics,” said MSU Athletics Director Mark Hollis in a released statement. “Private support creates opportunities for our nearly 800 student athletes to compete for championships, but also to leave MSU as leaders in the classroom and community.”
Bob Skandalaris, co-chair president of the Simon’s Campaign Cabinet , publicly presented the beginning of the university-wide capital campaign Friday at 5 p.m. at Wharton Center. This program will focus on MSU’s colleges, units and programs.
“Developing the minds and character of the next generation of leaders – in athletics, the arts, business, education, agriculture, sciences, law, medicine and many other areas – is one of the most essential and rewarding contributions we can make to society,” Bob Skandalaris said in a released statement.
