Trinity University

The Office of University Communications
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Jun. 26, 2012

Excited About Science and Innovation

Trinity University Trustee makes gift to support building for interdisciplinary research

SAN ANTONIO - John Korbell, incoming chair of the Trinity University Board of Trustees, and his wife, Bonnie, have made a $750,000 gift in support of the Center for the Sciences and Innovation (CSI).  Korbell, who tries to visit the site every time he is on campus, directed support to the project because "it really excites me when I envision the activities that will fill this area."

Although the multi-phased construction of CSI is not scheduled for completion until 2014, the project is far enough along to permit chemistry and biology classes and labs to be held there.  Explaining the vision behind the project, Korbell says, "This center for learning, in conjunction with the new curricular initiative, will deliver an environment that encourages creativity and entrepreneurship not only for the sciences but all disciplines! This will propel Trinity into the future unlike anything we have ever undertaken."

Trinity President Dennis A. Ahlburg expressed his deep appreciation and echoed Korbell's enthusiasm, noting, "The interdisciplinary melding made possible by CSI will inspire new levels of creativity and discovery for students and faculty alike." In recognition of the gift, the third floor open gathering space, overlooking the Marrs and Verna McLean Courtyard, will be named the Korbell Terrace.

Korbell, managing director of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, has served as a Trinity Trustee since 1978. His wife, Bonnie, is a member of the McLean family, whose gifts over several decades have had a transformative impact on the University.