Alumnus donates $500,000 to ensure green standards in school expansion

BY BRIAN ECKERT
Director of Media and Public Relations

Gains from their personal investments in green technology will be donated by a University of Richmond business alumnus and his wife to underwrite strict environmental standards in the proposed expansion of the Robins School of Business.

Richard and Susan Harrison of Fredericksburg, Va., have pledged $500,000 to fund the design of the latest energy conservation and management standards into the Robins School’s new wing.

The Harrisons want their gift not only to have an immediate impact on the environment, but also to inspire student interest in environmental sustainability and raise public awareness of the issue.

Richard Harrison, Thomson Corp.’s vice president for business strategy and corporate development, said he has long had intellectual curiosity about green technology, beginning with researching and investing in businesses in that field. He said he is fascinated by the significant savings to be reaped—for example, 10 times the cost of an LED light bulb in reduced electric consumption and traditional replacement bulbs.

“It became clear to me that I needed to take a look at my own energy consumption habits, when something as small as a light bulb can produce such a positive impact on our environment,” Harrison said.

The gift requires application of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System to the design of the new wing. LEED is the standard set by the U.S. Green Building Council for environmental sustainability. It focuses on five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.

Universities, including Richmond, have led the trend in applying LEED standards to building projects, encouraging the aesthetically pleasing, environmentally friendly and economically responsible characteristics in construction everywhere.

Harrison said that the gift presented an opportunity to combine his desire to give back to the business program that helped make him a success with raising environmental awareness.

“This gift showcases once again that very successful Robins School alumni are business leaders who are making a difference,” said Jorge Haddock, dean of the school. “The Harrisons’ gift is extremely generous, environmentally responsible and truly supportive of the Robins School.”

Harrison is a co-founder and former president of Global Securities Information Inc. He sold GSI to Thomson Corp. in 2005. A self-professed entrepreneur since age 10, his experience includes more than 20 years building, designing and implementing research tools for legal professionals.