Palm Beach Atlantic University Receives $5 Million Gift for New Business Center

Significant Contribution to Education

Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) recently celebrated a substantial contribution to its educational mission during a Topping Off ceremony for the new Marshall and Vera Lea Rinker Business Hall. Local residents Buddy and Connie Raney, notable for their successful entrepreneurial journey, have committed $5 million to support the construction of the Raney Center for Free Enterprise. This generous donation comes as a part of PBA’s ongoing God-Sized Dreams campaign, which aims to strengthen the university's infrastructure and expand its educational offerings.

Marshall Rinker Business Hall

A Vision for the Future

The new business hall is set to be a state-of-the-art facility, featuring a six-story design that spans 125,000 square feet. Scheduled for completion in January 2026, it will house the AACSB-accredited Marshall E. Rinker, Sr. School of Business. This facility represents the first tangible outcome of the God-Sized Dreams initiative, which has already raised over $70 million for improvements on the West Palm Beach campus.

Dr. Debra A. Schwinn, the president of PBA, expressed gratitude for the Raneys' contribution, highlighting its importance in fostering an innovative environment for students. This center aims to provide resources that encourage students to enhance their entrepreneurial skills and pursue their ambitions within a framework of strong ethical values.

The Raneys: A Legacy of Success

Buddy Raney's journey is particularly inspiring; dropping out of school at age 16 to face personal challenges such as addiction shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. His determination led him to establish Raney Construction, which flourished under his leadership despite market fluctuations. The sale of the construction firm in 2019 to Builders FirstSource marked a significant transition in his life, prompting reflections on identity and purpose.

In the spirit of giving back, Buddy and Connie Raney hope their financial support will have a lasting impact on students, encouraging them to innovate and think expansively about establishing their legacies. Connie, an accomplished author, emphasizes the importance of maintaining faith in one’s endeavors and believes that fostering young entrepreneurs is crucial in today’s economy.

The Purpose of the Raney Center

The Raney Center for Free Enterprise aims to be a hub of knowledge and innovation, focusing on the ethical foundations of free-market practices. It plans to offer comprehensive educational programs to students, faculty, and the community about the benefits of free enterprise. In partnership with PBA, this center will cultivate an environment where mentorship and entrepreneurial spirit can thrive.

Dr. Schwinn highlighted how the center's mission aligns with PBA's broader goals: to provide students with top-tier educational resources, preparing them not only as future professionals but also as potential leaders who can shape the business landscape.

A Commitment to Service

Beyond academic achievement, the university's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society remains a focal point. The new business hall will also incorporate space for other established centers of excellence, such as the Titus Center for Franchising and the LeMieux Center for Public Policy, ensuring a holistic approach to business education that addresses various facets of the industry.

As PBA moves forward with its God-Sized Dreams campaign, the enthusiastic support from the Raneys stands as a testament to the power of dreams realized through hard work and faith. The future of this partnership looks promising, as the Raney Center becomes a beacon of hope and innovation for aspiring entrepreneurs.

For more information about PBA and its campus enhancement plans, visit God-Sized Dreams at PBA.