Okla. State strikes oil

hoosier · #1 01-10-2006, 10:28 PM

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STILLWATER, Okla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 10, 2006--Oklahoma State University officials announced today that legendary oilman Boone Pickens has donated $165 million to be used to fund one of the nation's most comprehensive collegiate athletic complexes during the next five to 10 years.
Pickens' gift is the largest single donation for athletics to an institution of higher education in U.S. history.
"My passion for OSU has only intensified over the years as I recognize the link between my education and my success," said Pickens, 77. "I believe that developing teams that are competitive in all sports requires the best facilities possible. Developing those facilities will help move the university into a new era, both in athletics and academics. Athletics have proven to be a significant contributor in the academic success of an institution, both from a fundraising and a performance perspective."
A key element of long-term success, Pickens said, is a broader base of alumni financial support for OSU. "We are in a new era and I want to see all alums be a part of it," he said.
Pickens earned a degree in geology from OSU in 1951