With the largest single gift ever received by Michigan State University athletics, a family with deep ties to MSU will be making an extraordinary impact on campus.

 

Alumni Bob and Julie Skandalaris are providing a $10 million facilities gift that enhances the Spartan football, golf and basketball programs, while providing momentum for MSU's universitywide 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," said MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon. "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."

 

LAst week, MSU announced that Bob Skandalaris, who has served as a co-chair of President Simon's Campaign Cabinet during the quiet period of the current capital campaign, will continue in this role during the public phase of the campaign, which launched Oct. 24.

 

The campaign's goals, which will benefit all of MSU's colleges, units and programs, was announced after being approved by the MSU Board of Trustees at its meeting earlier that day.

 

"MSU and its intercollegiate athletics program have been important to our family, and we believe in the power of the student-athlete experience," said Bob Skandalaris. "We desire to provide our student-athletes with a championship-level experience while they work toward their degree."

 

He said a strong MSU is important to the overall health and economy of the state of Michigan.

 

"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," he said.

 

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