University Housing Solutions continues long-standing partnership with Central State University through $700,000+ gift
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Posted By: Reginald Culpepper on June 13, 2023 Students at Central State University will soon benefit from a $787,000 gift from Columbus-based University Housing Solutions to support activities and programming on the campus in Wilberforce. The donation completes a $2 million pledge by UHS to Central State, Ohio’s only public Historically Black College or University and 1890 Land-Grant Institution. Previously, a donation of approximately $1.25 million helped renew the University’s McPherson Stadium. “University Housing Solutions is a great partner with a long-lasting relationship with Central State. We appreciate their continued support of our students as they seek new opportunities to excel in college and beyond,” said Curtis Pettis, chief financial officer and vice president of Administration and Finance at CSU. The public-private partnership between Central State and UHS began in 2008. Owner and president Jim Schmidt said the partnership is unique in that UHS typically reserves philanthropic gifts for private institutions of higher learning. “Our partnerships are part of our business model through our philanthropic efforts,” Schmidt said, adding UHS owns 8,000 college beds at private colleges and universities in the Midwest and Southeast. The late Frank Murphy, Schmidt’s business partner and former co-owner, spearheaded the 15-year partnership with Central State University. “Frank loved this school. He had a deep, deep affiliation and affection for this institution,” Schmidt said. “It’s the best-kept secret in Ohio. Our partnership goes beyond business — we’re friends of this institution and always will be.” In addition to the football stadium, UHS gifts supported the MPC and Honors College residence halls and Shorter Road Apartments, an $8 million housing project just off campus. “We can help institutions do things that they can’t always do on their own,” Schmidt said. About Central State University: Central State University is a public HBCU and 1890 Land-Grant Institution with a 135-year tradition of preparing students from diverse backgrounds and experiences for leadership, research, and service. Central State ranks among U.S. News & World Report’s best colleges in five categories, including Best Undergraduate Engineering Program and Top Public Schools. The University fosters academic excellence within a nurturing environment and provides a solid liberal arts foundation and STEM-Ag curriculum leading to professional careers and advanced studies globally. EEO Statement: Central State University, an 1890 Land Grant Institution, is committed to the full inclusion of all people and does not discriminate based on race, age, ancestry, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV / AIDS states, marital or family status, military status, national origin political beliefs, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Department of Human Resources at (937) 376-6540. Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity institution Photo caption From left: Central State University on Tuesday accepted a $787,000 gift from University Housing Solutions. Pictured are (from left) Central State Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Administration and Finance Curtis Pettis, UHS owner and president Jim Schmidt, and Central State Director of Strategic Partnerships and External Affairs Kim Jones, ’89. The unrestricted gift will support student activities and programming. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Reginald Culpepper
President, Fulfillment and Web Services, HBCUCONNECT Clark Atlanta University class of 1998 Member Since September 2000 |
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