Historic $5 Million Donation Establishes Haverlack College of Business at Slippery Rock University

In a remarkable milestone in its 136-year history, Slippery Rock University (SRU) has received a transformative gift of $5 million from Rhonda and Elliott Haverlack, graduates of the class of 1980. This generous donation is set to establish the newly minted Haverlack College of Business, which will provide a significant boost to student scholarships, faculty research, and overall student experiences within accredited programs at SRU.

This historic gift is not only the largest ever made to SRU but also stands as one of the most substantial philanthropic contributions within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. The funds will be utilized to enhance educational facilities, offer additional opportunities for student engagement, and support faculty endeavors. The impressive legacy of the Haverlacks will help solidify the college's reputation in providing world-class educational opportunities.

Dean Prasad Vemala expressed deep gratitude to the Haverlack family, articulating how their contribution will ensure access to top-tier opportunities for countless students in the college's diverse programs. He emphasized that this generosity marks a pivotal moment for SRU, fortifying the university's position as a pivotal economic and leadership force in western Pennsylvania and beyond.

Rhonda Haverlack reflected on their motivation for the gift, stating, "We never imagined we'd have this opportunity. Slippery Rock will always be home for Elliott, and it has become a special place for both of us. Our hope is that every student walking through these doors understands that the opportunities available to them are limitless."

University President Karen Riley echoed these sentiments, hailing the donation as a transformative act that aligns perfectly with SRU’s strategic objectives and mission. She noted that this gift extends beyond mere philanthropy; it embodies a vision for the future, empowering students and invigorating the region's economy.

This incredible support will fund initiatives that cater to a variety of programs, all accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB). The establishment of the Haverlack College of Business is expected to pave the way for higher educational achievement, innovation, and entrepreneurial excellence among its students.

The university plans a celebration in April 2026, featuring a dedication ceremony that highlights the contributions of the Haverlack family, alongside university leaders, faculty, students, and alumni. This gathering will unveil new signage for the college and showcase notable achievements from both students and faculty, marking the beginning of a new era in business education at SRU.

Elliott Haverlack, a notable alumnus with a degree in environmental science, has reaffirmed his commitment to lifelong learning by returning to SRU for his MBA program. His journey exemplifies the belief in education as a continuous path, underpinning the values that the Haverlack College of Business seeks to instill in its students. His family has previously endowed educational scholarships, showing a longstanding commitment to enhancing the academic experience for students.

With this historic investment, Slippery Rock University is set to strengthen its offering of over 150 focused undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs, all aimed at providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers. Continually recognized for quality and affordability, SRU emphasizes an inclusive community that fosters hands-on learning and engaged citizenship. The school's 660-acre campus boasts modern academic facilities, a vibrant residential village, and exceptional athletic amenities for NCAA Division II teams.

As Slippery Rock University prepares to enter this new chapter with the Haverlack College of Business, it stands poised to make significant contributions to student success, regional growth, and the development of future leaders ready to thrive in a dynamic global economy.

Topics Other)

【About Using Articles】

You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.

【About Links】

Links are free to use.