Rao, Kottamasu donate $100,000 to medical school project
University President Michael Rao and Trustee Sam Kottamasu will donate $100,000 each to help finance the institution's ongoing medical school project.
The announcement was made by Rao during the AdHoc Medical School committee update at the Board of Trustees meeting today. Kottamasu, AdHoc committee chair, addressed the board regarding progressions in affiliation agreements before Rao discussed his hope for the project.
"One of the aspects of (the project) that we continue to look at and explore is fundraising," Rao said during the meeting. "I really think it's important that there be leadership gifts like this and that people understand that their investment will be as well guided as you would guide your resources."
Rao said he hopes that his and Kottamasu's donations will help inspire a trend in others to likewise donate to the medical school's development.
Vice President of Alumni Relations Michael Leto said he commended both donations, though they are not currently seeking other gifts at this time.
"We wouldn't launch a public fundraising campaign until the first of the year (2009)," he said. "People engaged in the process have expressed their support for the project, but it is contingent upon going back and asking for their financial support."
Once more has been established in the project's development, Leto said that an official campaign will be likely to launch and remain ongoing as the school is established.
Check Friday's CM Life for more coverage on this story.
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