Medical Mutual of Ohio gift enhances BGSU health, wellness programs

BOWLING GREEN, O.—Bowling Green State University and its Center of Excellence in Health and Wellness Across the Lifespan received a huge shot in the arm recently with a donation of nearly $500,000 from Medical Mutual of Ohio.

According to James Beaverson, BGSU’s corporate and foundations giving officer, the majority of the gift – $400,000 – will provide operational and programmatic support of the center of excellence. The gift will ensure that wellness counseling and programming will continue to be offered to faculty, staff and students. The University community will benefit from an assortment of programs and promotional materials that focus on topics such as nutrition, exercise and stress management.

Additionally, faculty research that addresses health and wellness issues also will garner support as part of the donation. Under the umbrella of the center of excellence, collaborative research will receive a boost.

Dr. Linda Petrosino, dean of the College of Health and Human Services and one of the organizers of the health and wellness center of excellence, said “with Medical Mutual’s support, we are able to further focus on our strengths.

“Our distinctive approach centers on the promotion of wellness and improved quality of life instead of on the medical aspect of curing disease,” Petrosino explained. “We will be better aligned to advance our distinctive educational role, nationally recognized research programs and strong community partnerships for disease prevention and healthy behaviors.”

The gift also supports two additional areas: the Excellence Fund for BGSU and the University’s Centennial. Approximately $65,000 will provide flexible support for urgent priorities of BGSU and $25,000 will sponsor a portion of the Alumni Association’s Centennial Homecoming festivities.

“We are well aware of BGSU’s strength in the area of health and wellness,” said Rick Chiricosta, president and CEO of Medical Mutual and a 1993 MBA graduate of BGSU. “Our gift is our way of saying ‘thanks’ for being a valued long-time customer and for the role Bowling Green plays in northwest Ohio.”

“We are honored that Medical Mutual of Ohio has demonstrated its belief in Bowling Green State University and our ability to make a difference in the area of health and wellness,” said BGSU President Carol A. Cartwright. “We appreciate their commitment to Bowling Green State University and the northwest Ohio community.”


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(Posted August 03, 2010 )