MARSHALL, Minn. – Southwest Minnesota State University has received a $5.5 million commitment from the Schwan’s Corporate Giving Foundation to support the planned Southwest Minnesota Indoor Sports and Recreation Dome.
The gift, announced Friday during SMSU’s State of the University address, is the largest single gift in the university’s history.
SMSU President David Jones called the contribution a “transformational investment” in the university and Southwest Minnesota.
“This extraordinary gift reflects a shared belief in the power of education, wellness, and community,” Jones said.
The planned dome would provide year-round space for SMSU recreation and wellness programs, athletic development, youth sports, camps, tournaments, walking programs, fitness activities and community events.
Theresa Zaske, Community Relations Manager at CJ Schwan’s Company and secretary of the Schwan’s Corporate Giving Foundation, said the organization believes the facility can benefit people throughout the region.
“We believe in the impact this facility can have on the region, and we’re proud to invest in something that will serve people of all ages while strengthening the future of Southwest Minnesota,” Zaske said.
SMSU Vice President for Athletics Travis Whipple described the gift as a “game-changer” for the university and region.
“We will look back on today as one of those defining moments in our history,” Whipple said.
The $5.5 million commitment represents a significant portion of the project’s fundraising goal, but additional philanthropic and community support will be needed to complete the dome.
