MSSU Receives Major Gift

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 30, 2006
Contact: Dr. Julio S. León
(417) 625-9501

Student Recreation Center


JOPLIN, MO (SNS) – The Missouri Southern Foundation announced a major gift from Mr. and Mrs. George S. Beimdiek.  Mr. Beimdiek is a leading businessman and insurance professional in Southwest Missouri.

The Beimdieks’ $1 million gift will support the construction of a new Student Recreation Center at Missouri Southern State University, said Curt Betebenner, Foundation Director.  In recognition of this significant gift, the MSSU Board of Governors will be ask to name the facility in honor of the Beimdieks, stated Mr. Betebenner.

Longtime Carthage residents, the Beimdieks have deep ties to Missouri Southern and have supported the University and its students for many years, stated Dr. Julio S. Leon, University President. “We are very grateful for their continued support and confidence in the University,” Dr. Leon said, “and generations of university students will benefit because of this generosity.”
Mr. Beimdiek’s daughter and son-in-law, Carolyn and John (Pat) Phelps of Carthage, served as members of the Board of Regents (now Board of Governors) for the University. Both served as Presidents of the Board. Carolyn also is a member of the Board of Directors of the Missouri Southern Foundation.

Mr. Beimdiek has served on various boards and commissions, as well as being active in numerous civic organizations.

His grandson, Bill Phelps, is a 1996 graduate of Missouri Southern.
“The Beimdieks’ gift will be instrumental in making this facility a reality,” Dr. Leon stated.

Current plans for the new Student Recreation Center include:

    • a new student health center,

    • a gymnasium featuring two basketball courts,

    • a fitness center with more than  6,000 square feet to include weight lifting equipment, cardiovascular equipment such as treadmills, stair climbers, elliptical exercise equipment,

    • a wellness testing center,

    • a dance and fitness studio for a variety of classes,

    • an indoor jogging track,

    • and many other amenities.


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