Rise. Shine. Campaign Launch At Lake Campus

CELINA, OH – On Sunday, March 22, 2015, the Lake Campus hosted a regional launch of Wright State University’s “Rise. Shine.” Capital Campaign. Hosted by President David R. Hopkins, the afternoon brought over 100 faculty, staff and guests to James F. Dicke Hall to hear about future initiatives at the Lake Campus.

The university launched the $150 million fundraising campaign in October of 2014.  Co-chairing the campaign is Academy Award Winning Actor Tom Hanks and Amanda Wright Lane, great grandniece of University namesakes Wilbur and Orville Wright. To date, the university has raised $112 million.

At the event Dr. Bonnie Mathies, Lake Campus Dean, revealed 5 “Concepts of the Capital Campaign,” in alphabetical order, including:

• Advanced Manufacturing - WSU is envisioning a world class Advanced Manufacturing & Robotics teaching center, developed with local partners to ensure and achieve new economic growth in technology and manufacturing right here in Ohio.
• Agribusiness/Food Science - The WSU Lake Campus envisions support for key programs that reflect community and regional needs and is focused on technical and applied information related to the agriculture industry.
• Athletics/Recreation - The WSU Lake Campus envisions an Athletic/Recreation Complex that would foster an environment that is conducive to: 1) increased engagement of all students in campus activities; 2) advancements in recruiting for all athletic programs; and, 3) a more enjoyable recreation experience offered by a student-run facility.
• Connector Building - The Lake Campus envisions a multi-functional area with instructional and support service space connecting between Trenary and Dwyer Halls. This space will allow the Lake Campus to achieve the strategic goal of enhancing student access to and successful participation in higher education through quality and innovative instruction and programs. The space would include a Library/Learning Center.
• Water Quality Research Institute - The WSU Lake Campus envisions a Water Quality Institute that would foster innovation through: 1) academic and industry collaborations; and, 2) link research to address business, industry and community needs.

Dean Mathies emphasized the five areas are not listed in the order of need nor desire. “We certainly will pay attention to what students, faculty, staff, donors and our community are requesting,” she stated.

President Hopkins announced the highlight of the afternoon by revealing the university had just received word that Pat and Don Griesdorn, former Celina residents, agreed to sell 38 acres of land just east of campus to Wright State.

“This is prime real estate – adjacent to the Lake Campus – that will allow us to grow and expand for years to come…This is a beautiful gesture for our campus, our community, and future generations of Lake Campus students,” said Hopkins.

For more information about the campaign or to donate please contact Julie Miller at julie.miller@wright.edu or 419-586-0375. 

Click here for more pictures from the celebration.