(Abilene, Texas – February 18, 2022 ) – The J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation of Tulsa, Okla., has issued a $2 million challenge grant to McMurry University in support of the University’s $21 million Campus Center capital campaign. McMurry’s alumni and friends are being called upon to raise $3.7 million by January 11, 2023 to be awarded Mabee’s challenge grant.
The Campus Center capital campaign will support the modernization of The Shirley L. and Mildred Garrison United Methodist Campus Center (Garrison Campus Center) that opened in 1979. For 40-plus years, the Campus Center has supported and encouraged student socialization. The modernization plan will expand the facility from just over 39,000 to more than 58,000 square feet with new and updated spaces. These include our student success suite, meeting spaces for student organizations, chapel, student services, dining, fitness, a spirit store, community outreach and more.
Mabee is a well-known and respected name on the McMurry campus. The Mabee Foundation has provided major support to the University in the past for the Mabee Dining Hall and the Mabee Room in the Garrison Campus Center.
“Foundation support is critical to the success of the capital campaign,” said President Sandra S. Harper. “Expanding the campus center will enhance student life on campus, and McMurry is appreciative that a familiar family foundation is offering to help us fund our $21 million project.”
The project is an expansion and modernization of the current Campus Center, that will serve as a hub for social interaction and academics. The updated Campus Center will incorporate the Mabee Dining Hall to create a student-focused complex while continuing to serve as the heart of the campus community.
“McMurry is humbled and honored to continue our longstanding partnership with the Mabee Foundation on the largest single project in McMurry’s history,” said Vice President of Advancement Michael V. Hutchison.
The Mabee Foundation was founded in 1948 by John E. Mabee and his wife, Lottie E. Their legacy of giving includes projects in the areas of Education, Social and Humanitarian Services, Medical and Health, and Culture and Religion. The foundation limits grants to ‘brick and mortar’ projects in a 6-state region consisting of Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas. They issue challenge grants to both require and inspire widespread public support and act as a catalyst to assist grantees in reaching their fundraising goals.
Contact:
Robin Daniels, Vice President of Marketing and Communications
325-260-3963 (Media Cell Phone)
Josh Poorman, Executive Director of Development
325-793- 4763
Press Contact
Robin Daniels
marketing@mcm.edu
325-260-3963