Current and past members of two Mississippi State student organizations are donating or pledging more than $85,000 for new university gathering places.
Contributions from current and alumni members of the MSU Roadrunners and the Orientation Leaders have established a fund that enabled the recent construction of small adjoining parks along the west side of historic Lee Hall. The money also is being used to maintain the areas' appearance.
Called "outdoor classrooms" by some because of lectures and study sessions often taking place there, Roadrunner and Orientation Leader parks feature new brick flooring, lighting, benches, tables, and landscaping. A campus shuttle stop is located at the south end.
MSU Roadrunners play a major role in the university's recruitment of students, while Orientation Leaders serve as key staff members in operating new student and parent orientation sessions each June.
The donations also enabled the construction of an ornamental brick fountain just outside the Lee Hall auditorium exit and the restoration of a nearby vintage drinking fountain given to Mississippi A&M College--MSU's original name--by the Class of 1911.
"These students and alumni wanted to do something more for their university," said Jimmy W. Abraham, director of enrollment services and adviser for both groups since 1979. "We feel that funding these beautiful parks outside one of Mississippi State's most historic buildings is very appropriate.
"It should be gratifying to the donors that, in the short time they have been available, these parks have become a favorite spot for faculty, staff, students, and alumni to gather," he added.
