BLUEFIELD, Va -
Bluefield College is 1 million steps closer to starting a major construction project, thanks to a challenge grant from the Hugh I. Shott, Jr. Foundation.
The grant, announced Friday, April 20, will go toward the first phase of construction of a state-of-the-art Campus and Community Wellness Center (CCWC), that will eventually offer the campus two gymnasiums, an indoor walking track, athletic training center, pool, classrooms and more.
As a challenge grant, the Shott gift requires Bluefield College to raise matching funds before having access to the $1 announced Friday. The school has already raised nearly $500,000 so far this year, and hopes to have a total of $4 million by December 2012.
"This is a significant and transformational gift for Bluefield College," said President David Olive. "Students will have unprecedented opportunities for recreation and wellness in this facility."
The college began initial discussions regarding the construction of a similar facility in partnership with the City of Bluefield in 2008, but those plans have since dissolved. Bluefield College's Board of Trustees approved formal plans for phase 1 fundraising during its fall 2011 meetings.
Anyone interested in making a donation to Bluefield College to help fund construction of the CCWC should contact Ruth Blankenship of BC at (276) 326-4556 or rblankenship@bluefield.edu.
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