Western Michigan University Director of Athletics Dan Bartholomae announced another lead gift for the renovation and expansion of the current WMU Women's Basketball Locker Room. Thanks to the generosity of Charles C. and former WMU Board of Trustee Chair Lynn L. Chen-Zhang, the team entry will be named the Charles C. and Lynn L. Chen-Zhang Player Entrance. Charles, the Founder and President of Zhang Financial, and Lynn, the CEO of Zhang Financial, hold advanced degrees from Western Michigan University. Charles has an MA in Economics, while Lynn has an MS in Accountancy.
"We are so appreciative of Charles' and Lynn's significant investment in this important project. Their gift has allowed us to stay ahead of our anticipated schedule, with an anticipated move-in date this upcoming season," Director of Athletics, Dan Bartholomae said. "Many thanks to my colleague Kristen DeVries, Vice President & Executive Director of the WMU Foundation, for her support of these fundraising initiatives".
In March, during a special ceremony, the renovation officially got underway with the "swinging of the sledge hammers" to celebrate the start of construction.
The renovation will expand the square footage of the existing space by nearly 50% and add a new team lounge area and nutrition station. Customized and personalized state-of the art lockers will be added to an expanded locker room space, with digital signage and improved lighting. Upgraded finishes, new furniture, audio/video technology and new graphics in the locker room, team room and wet area will round out the project, which will provide the Broncos one of the finest team locker rooms among the Mid-American Conference.
"It has been nothing short of impressive since we announced the initiative to raise the money for our women's basketball locker room renovation. We have some terrific philanthropists in our community, Charles and Lynn have shown tremendous generosity with their gift to our project for which we are incredibly grateful. Their gift enables us to greatly enhance our ability to both recruit and retain talented female student athletes at this terrific institution," said Head Women's Basketball Coach, Shane Clipfell.
"The expanded locker room will enable WMU Women's Basketball Team to better develop current athletes and recruit the next generation of Broncos," said Ms. Chen-Zhang. "WMU has been instrumental to our lives, and Charles and I are proud invest in this project that will set the Women's Basketball Team up for continued success."
With commemorative lockers and other giving opportunities still available, fundraising efforts continue as the project pushes forward to completion. Those wishing to make a donation to the women's basketball program can do so online or by contacting the Bronco Athletic Fund via email at broncoathleticfund@wmich.edu or by phone at (269) 387-8776.
