Rendering of Lemieux Library addition
SU awarded grant from prestigious Kresge Foundation
SU capital campaign gains momentum
SEATTLE - The Kresge Foundation has awarded a $750,000 Challenge Grant to Seattle University to help fund the construction of the Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons project.
"The Kresge Foundation has provided a wonderful stimulus for the completion of this project, which is so central to our mission," said Mary Kay McFadden, vice president for University Advancement. "The application process is very competitive, and we appreciate the support and confidence of Kresge in our work. We will use this grant to broaden donor support for the largest capital building project in university history."
Kresge, one of the nation's leading grantmakers, helps non-profit organizations strengthen leadership and broaden financial support through its Challenge Grant Program for capital projects. This fall, SU will launch a broad-based participation effort to raise funds for the $55 million library project and meet the fundraising challenge.
"With the awarding of this grant we are saluting your efforts to improve conditions and advance opportunities in your community," said Kresge Foundation President Rip Rapson, who praised Seattle University's record in building and supporting a diverse student population.
To meet the Kresge challenge, Seattle University will need to receive $1.8 million in new gifts and pledges in support of the Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons project by June 30, 2009. SU supporters are encouraged to join the Kresge Challenge. The expansion of SU's 1966 library is the lead project in Seattle University's overall For the Difference We Make capital campaign. The campaign, which began in 2003 and was publicly launched last April, has raised more than $146.4 million to date toward its goal of $160 million.
The Lemieux Library and McGoldrick Learning Commons renovation and expansion project will add an additional 37,000 square feet of space to the existing 80,000 square foot building. Scheduled to open by fall quarter 2010, the library and commons will provide students with new technology resources, an innovative common area, learning labs and study spaces.
The Kresge Foundation is an independent, private foundation based in Troy, Mich. It was created in 1924 by Sebastian S. Kresge, the founder of K-Mart department stores, "to promote the well-being of mankind."
Press release posted online on September 23, 2008