Tufts’ New Athletic Center Funded by Donations

One of the most impressive things about Tufts University’s new sports and fitness center is that it was funded entirely by donations from those who care deeply about the school. Steve Tisch, a 1971 Tufts graduate, led the effort, donating $13 million himself and challenging others to cover the $16 million-plus cost of the project. While Tisch, chairman of the New York Giants football team, has earned the right to have his name on the new building, New England Patriots fans will be happy to see a very familiar name when entering the sports complex: the Kraft Family Atrium, made possible through a gift from the Kraft family (Dan Kraft is a 1987 alum).

The Steve Tisch Sports and Fitness Center, which officially opened at the beginning of the school year, was dedicated in a special ceremony on Monday, October 22. Tufts’ previous president, Larry Bacow, and his wife, Adele, attended the event. The couple will also have a sailing pavilion named after them, which, according to Athletic Director Bill Gehling, will be open in the spring.

Steve Tisch beams after receiving a standing ovation from Tufts alumni, staff, and students who attended the October 22 dedication ceremony.

Students gathered in the Kraft Family Atrium to thank Tisch for his multimillion dollar effort to support the new fitness center.

Medford Mayor Michael McGlynn jokingly said he “selfishly” wanted Tisch’s new buildings in Medford (Tufts’ campus straddles Medford and Somerville).

Outside of the new Tisch Center.

– InsideMedford.com