Alumnus Gives Challenge $

Part of Riverland's responsibility to MnSCU is to have a Master Facility Plan. This plan is designed to strategically plan facilities up to fifty years in the future. Part of the more immediate plan involves the Fine Arts programs. The plan includes a renovated theatre, a new recital hall and a new art gallery. It also includes a renovation of the entire Fine Arts facility including classrooms and performance areas.

Why? One reason is that the art department is scattered throughout the campuses. The renovation and additions would put all of the classes and exhibits together. A new recital/lecture hall and renovated music classrooms would allow the music department to rehearse and perform in facilities with appropriate acoustics. Additionally, a renovated theatre would provide a facility that would provide a safer, better suited educational environment that would prepare students for advanced study in the 21st century.

A predesign was developed and presented to MnSCU with the hope of gaining support. Although there were many proposals from around the state, no arts projects were approved for 2008-2010. Our task force was told we needed a feasibility study, estimated at $25,000, answering questions about the use and the potential financing of the project.

Along came alumnus Dr. Jerry Nelson. Dr. Nelson graduated from Riverland in 1959 and has since became internationally known and recognized for his work in agriculture. Last year Dr. Nelson was presented the American Association of Community College’s Distinguished Alumni Award in Tampa Florida. Dr. Nelson is currently a Professor Emeritus at the University of Missouri-Columbia.

A strong supporter of Riverland, Dr. Nelson heard about the Fine Arts project and has generously pledged a match of $10,000 to help with the feasibility study. Currently the task force in conjunction with the Riverland Foundation is working to raise $10,000 needed to match Dr. Nelson’s pledge and $5,000 to complete the expense of the feasibility study. Thank you, Dr. Nelson!