Spring 2007

Terrizzi Gift Supports Scholarships for Miami Student-Athletes

With the world of intercollegiate athletics growing ever more competitive and the future of every college athletic program relying upon its ability to recruit and retain top students and athletes, the role of scholarships and financial aid for student-athletes has become a priority at Miami University .

Miami 's storied athletic tradition is presently carried on by 19 varsity athletic programs and more than 550 student-athletes. One of the department's primary objectives is to fully fund as many athletic scholarships for each sport as the NCAA permits, helping level the playing field with its NCAA Division I competitors.

Bolstering that effort with a substantial contribution to the scholarship fund of Miami 's Department of Intercollegiate Athletics are long-time supporters Frank '65 and Julia Terrizzi. According to Director of Athletics Brad Bates, the gift will be instrumental in the continued development of Miami 's student-athletes.

"Frank and Julia believe in maximizing human development through diverse and meaningful ways," said Bates. "Clearly Miami student-athletes have the extraordinary opportunity to grow because of this vision. We are fortunate to have such talented, intelligent and passionate people to support and serve as models for our student-athletes."

Miami athletics recently completed another impressive season, in which the men's basketball and ice hockey programs have both made NCAA Tournament appearances and the synchronized skating program is coming off a U.S. all-time best Silver Medal finish at the International Skating Union's World Championships. At present, more than 375 student-athletes are receiving at least a partial scholarship through the athletic department, with 153 receiving full scholarships.

" Miami 's culture is anchored in the belief that you cannot be excellent in just one aspect of your life — excellence is a lifestyle," Bates said. "Clearly investments like those of Frank and Julia ensure that future generations of Miami student-athletes will continue growing into global leaders of tomorrow."

The Terrizzis, who have an extensive history as supporters of Miami , reside in Tucson , Ariz. Frank is a former president of the Miami University Alumni Association Board of Directors and an active member of The Miami University Campaign For Love and Honor Athletics Committee. His lifelong committment to Miami Athletics was formed during a one-year stint as sports editor of the Miami Student .