SELINSGROVE, Pa. - The Kresge Foundation of Troy, Michigan, has committed a challenge grant of $1 million to Susquehanna University for a new sports and fitness complex which is scheduled to be completed in the 2000-2001 academic year. The new athletic complex, which will include a new field house and new football stadium and track, is an urgent priority in the Susquehanna 2000: The Next Challenge capital fundraising campaign.

"This is wonderful recognition for Susquehanna and a significant achievement for our campaign," said University President Joel Cunningham. "We were in a position to make a compelling case to the Foundation because so many of our alumni and friends had already made generous gift commitments. We now look forward to working to meet this welcome but formidable challenge."

To meet the Kresge challenge, Susquehanna University must secure a total of $ 3.5 million in new gifts for all campaign priorities, including at least $1 million for the athletic complex, by October 1, 2000. With these new gifts, the University will exceed its $42 million campaign goal, and secure the $1 million Kresge grant.

In addition to the sports and fitness complex, other remaining campaign priorities include increases to the University's endowment and the Susquehanna University Fund. Other building priorities, including a new student housing complex and a new business and communications center, have already been funded by campaign gifts. The Susquehanna 2000 campaign had raised $40.1 million through the end of February.

The Kresge Foundation is an independent, private foundation created by the personal gifts of Sebastian S. Kresge. It is not affiliated with any corporation or organization. Grants are made to institutions operating in the areas of higher education, health and long-term care, arts and humanities, human services, science and the environment, and public affairs. In 1998, the foundation awarded nearly $107 million in grants to 211 charitable organizations.

Last updated March 14, 2000 Chad Emerich, Office of Public Relations ©1999 Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, PA 17870 Phone: 570-372-4119   Fax:570-372-4048