Schools
Liggett Receives Largest Donation in School's History — $4.25 million
Donation committed to creating Liggett's new state-of-the-art athletic facilities
GROSSE POINTE WOODS — University Liggett School announced today a gift of $4.25 million from John A. and Marlene L. Boll Foundation. It is the largest single gift in the school’s 134-year history and will be committed to the creation of a new state-of-the-art athletics facility, a long-time school goal.
“Gifts come in many shapes, sizes and forms,” says John Boll. “The only true gifts are those that go on long after they are given. As God has entrusted our family with much, we now leave a legacy to ensure that a superior educational institution will continue to champion the finest qualities of achievement, of excellence in sport, of character and of creativity. This is then a legacy of human beings that can lead the world toward the highest and the best.”
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“This gift is a catalyst for us to realize our vision for Liggett as a school worth attending and emulating,” said Head of School Dr. Joseph P. Healey. “It’s a profound measure of the confidence the Boll family places on the importance of Liggett for our community and region.”
The Boll family has long been a generous supporter of University Liggett School; in 2006 a $1 million donation from the family allowed the school to create a department of student support that enhances the educational experience for all students in all grades. John and Marlene proudly acknowledge six of their grandchildren who have attended or are currently attending Liggett. They are Amanda Boll (Class of 2008), Alex Boll (Class of 2009), Justin Mazza (Class of 2010), Jaco Mazza (Class of 2013), J.T. Mestdagh (Class of 2014), and Casey Mazza (Class of 2015).
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This latest gift comes on the heels of other great news for Liggett. The school opened at near capacity this fall, and the annual fund drive surpassed its goal of $1.1 million last year with record-setting participation from families, alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the school.
Liggett recently consolidated to one from two campuses and revitalized its sports program. The baseball, girls basketball, and boys hockey teams have already won honors as state champions and finalists. The planned athletic facilities – including a new field house, gymnasiums and all-weather playing fields – will expand opportunities for students and members of the wider community to participate in all manner of sports.
Other strategic goals for Liggett include endowing the Liggett Merit Scholars program to provide scholarships to the best and brightest students in the region. The program, launched in 2007, has increased applications and enrollment, and raised the academic achievement of the student body.
