$2M gift funding lyceum space at Drury

A $2 million gift announced today from The Sunderland Foundation to Drury University will fund a lyceum space on campus.

The new hall for public lectures and discussions is planned to go on the second story of Drury's Olin Library, according to a news release.

"The lyceum will be a sanctuary, a safe place for ideas to be shared in a civil way between people of differing points of view, continuing a tradition at Drury that dates back to its earliest roots,” said John Beuerlein, Drury’s interim president, in the release. “It represents our commitment to fostering an environment where students can engage in meaningful dialogue, learn from one another and become proficient in civil discourse on controversial topics.”

University officials envision a “campus public square” for intellectual exchanges and debates to take place in order for diverse perspectives to be shared.

The Kansas City-based Sunderland Foundation has a history of “investing in the spaces and places where nonprofits do their work since 1945,” according to its website, and that often results in funding toward higher education, youth services, health facilities and community buildings.

"This gift reflects their commitment to enhancing education and promoting open dialogue and is a testament to the importance of philanthropy in advancing education and nurturing future leaders," said Marie Muhvic, Drury’s executive vice president for university advancement, in the release.

The gift was made through Drury’s Fortify the Future campaign, which school spokesperson Jasmine Cooper said has raised $31 million, or 67% of its $50 million goal.

Cooper said Drury is working with Kenmar Construction Inc. as contractor for the renovations, but a timeline has not yet been determined.