Niagara University Receives $1 Million Gift to Enhance Academic, Athletic Programs
Niagara University has received a $1 million gift from a 1966 alumnus to transform the experience at its athletic contests and other university events, while presenting a plethora of academic, hands-on, experiential learning opportunities for students.
The generosity of Bill McKnight, president of Automated Petroleum and Energy Co., and his wife, Kathy, will allow the university to purchase and install three high-definition LED video boards in its athletic arenas (two in the Gallagher Center and one in Dwyer Arena) and establish a mobile production trailer to create content that meets the production standards of major television networks, including ESPN.
Each of the upgrades will offer communication studies, sport management and other applicable majors practical experiences in gameday presentation, including roles as camera operators, technical directors, assistant directors, graphics producers, video and replay operators, and sideline reporters.
“We are extraordinarily grateful to Bill and Kathy for making an investment that will revolutionize the in-game experience for our fans and student-athletes, and further enhance the experiential learning environment that is a trademark of a Niagara University education,” said the Rev. James J. Maher, C.M., NU president. “This gift helps us elevate the outstanding quality of our academic and athletic programs to new heights.”
Click here to learn more about this transformational project.