Weinstein Family to Donate $5 Million to University of Richmond for New Recreation and Wellness Center
March 4, 2005
Marcus M. and Carole M. Weinstein, daughter Allison P. Weinstein and son-in-law Ivan Jecklin will donate $5 million for a new recreation and wellness center to be built at the University of Richmond, university officials announced today.
The new facility will be named the Weinstein Recreation and Wellness Center in honor of the family’s long-time support of the university. Both Marcus and Carole Weinstein are University of Richmond graduates. Allison Weinstein is a member of the university’s board of trustees and serves as a member of the trustee cabinet leading Richmond’s $200 million “Transforming Bright Minds” fundraising campaign.
“The continuing generosity of the Weinstein family will have a significant impact on the health and well-being of University of Richmond students for generations to come,” said Richmond President William E. Cooper.
Groundbreaking for the center, to be built alongside the Robins Center, is scheduled for May 6. Construction will begin immediately, with completion projected by December 2006. The total cost of the project is estimated at $12 million. When completed, the center will be available for use by students, faculty, staff and alumni.
The facility will add 26,400 square feet of new space and renovate an additional 32,500 square feet of existing space inside the Robins Center. The new space will include a three-bay auxiliary gym with an elevated running track. Renovations will significantly upgrade and expand current fitness and recreational facilities.
"The Weinstein family appreciates the opportunity in helping to invest in this much-needed facility," Marcus Weinstein said.
During the past 32 years, the family has contributed to a number of academic programs, endowed faculty chairs, lectureships and construction projects at the university. Those projects include: creation of the Marcus M. & Carole Weinstein and Gilbert M. & Fannie S. Rosenthal Jewish and Christian Studies Chair; funding the construction of Weinstein Hall, a social sciences building that opened in fall 2003; and establishing the Minnie Roth Weinstein Scholarship Program, the Weinstein Family Endowed Chair in the Social Sciences, and the Carole M. Weinstein Chair of International Education.