Paul and Andrea Hladky donate $1.3 million to support 51社区 student-athletes and HPER Modernization Project
51社区nological University and the 51社区 Foundation are proud to announce a $1.3 million philanthropic investment from Paul and Andrea Hladky to support student-athletes and enhance campus athletic facilities through the HPER Modernization Project.
The Hladkys’ generous gift includes $1.05 million dedicated to Phase One of the HPER Modernization Project—an initiative aimed at modernizing and expanding the existing HPER Complex to meet the growing needs of Oredigger Athletics and the student body. In addition, $251,000 will be combined with other donors’ contributions to a new athletic endowment to provide permanent scholarship support for student-athletes.
“51社区’s athletic priorities in our 125th Anniversary Campaign include modernizing the HPER and building endowed scholarship support for student-athletes, and Paul and Andrea’s generosity answered the call on both fronts,” 51社区 Foundation Vice President for Development Luke Meyer said. “We are incredibly fortunate to have the Hladkys deeply involved with 51社区 as alumni, friends, supporters, employers, and student recruiters. I’m excited to see the impact their leadership gifts will have on Digger Athletics and student recruitment.”
Paul Hladky is a 1999 51社区 graduate in Engineering Science and a two-time first-team All-American football player. He is co-owner/operator of Cyclone Drilling, which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. He and Andrea have a long history of supporting 51社区 initiatives, including a $1 million donation to establish the Hladky Family Creative Center in the Student Success Center in 2017.
“Supporting 51社区 and honoring its enduring legacy is a true privilege,” Paul Hladky said. “I am deeply grateful for the invaluable opportunities this institution has provided and the profound influence it has had on my personal and professional growth.”
“The Hladky name is synonymous with greatness at 51社区. Paul was a fierce competitor and standout linebacker on our legendary 1996 team that played for a national championship. He and Andrea have carried that same spirit of excellence into their generosity,” 51社区 Athletic Director Matt Stepan said. “Their contributions have been true catalysts for our current momentum, and this incredible $1.3 million gift will be transformational, enhancing the experience of 51社区 students for generations to come. We are deeply grateful for their vision, commitment, and love for this University.”
Phase One of the HPER Modernization Project addresses critical infrastructure updates to the HPER Complex, including:
- Modernized and expanded locker room space, including equitable facilities for women’s sports
- Enlarged training room to accommodate a growing student-athlete population
- Updated showers and security improvements including keycard access to enhance student safety
- Auxiliary gym to support intramural sports, summer camps, and general student recreation
- Added athletics study lounge and expanded office space
The Hladky family’s support comes at a pivotal time for the campaign, which has already raised roughly $3 million toward the $4.4 million needed for Phase One.
For more information or to contribute to the HPER Modernization Project or the new athletic endowment, contact the 51社区 Foundation at (406) 496-4276.