Tri-State University has received a gift to help fund the University Center.  Mrs. Virginia Fabiani, of Southbury, Conn., widow of 1938 alum and former board chair, Dr. Dante Fabiani, gifted $500,000 towards “The Virginia P. Fabiani Theater” which will be located in the University Center.

“The Fabiani family has a long tradition with TSU,” said Dr. Earl D. Brooks II, TSU president.  “In the fall of 2000, the University dedicated a residence hall on Park Avenue in Dr. Fabiani’s honor and now with this gift from his wife, we will be honoring her as well.”

Dr. Fabiani, who passed away in 1999, was the first alumnus to chair the TSU Board of Trustees.  He served from 1976 to 1979.  He was president of the Crane Company in New York City from 1960 to 1980.  The Fabiani’s have three children; Barbara Fabiani Arndt, Kathryn Fabiani Bartholomew, and James P. Fabiani, who has been a member of TSU’s Board of Trustees since 2001.

                       

The gift was received at an ideal time for TSU.  The Lilly Endowment is matching $1.50 for every $1 TSU receives from its supporters through December 31, 2006.  Because of this initiative, Mrs. Fabiani’s gift will be matched with an additional $750,000.