Berwicks’ gift of $10 million moves UO closer to new performance venue

EUGENE, Ore. -- (Oct. 13, 2011) -- The University of Oregon today announced a $10 million gift from alumni Phyllis and Andy Berwick. The gift is a commitment to support a potential new performance venue to be funded primarily by private gifts. Plans for the new facility are still under review.

"We are immensely grateful to Phyzz and Andy for their generosity over the years," said UO President Richard W. Lariviere. "They are loyal Ducks whose leadership remains invaluable to the university."Phyllis and Andy Berwick

The new performance hall is part of an overall strategic plan for a potential renovation and expansion of the Erb Memorial Union (EMU) and Student Recreation Center. The expansion is a capital construction priority. The university and student leaders are currently reviewing plans for this expansion.

"This is a trifecta for Phyllis and me," said donor Andy Berwick. "This is where three of our greatest passions come together-the Oregon Bach Festival, the EMU, and the University of Oregon."

Andy Berwick, who graduated from the UO in 1955, is a real estate developer and founder of Berwick Pacific Corp. in San Mateo, Calif. Phyllis Berwick, a 1956 graduate, is a former teacher.

About the University of Oregon
The University of Oregon is among the 108 institutions chosen from 4,633 U.S. universities for top-tier designation of "Very High Research Activity" in the 2010 Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The UO also is one of two Pacific Northwest members of the Association of American Universities.

MEDIA CONTACT: Julie Brown, 541-346-3185, julbrown@uoregon.edu

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