The owner of Stop-N-Go convenience stores has pledged$1 million toward North Dakota State University's $75 million fundraising campaign.
Shelly Ellig, who owns 28 stores in the region, designated his donation to go toward the $8 million upgrade to the Bison Sports Arena.
Athletic Director Gene Taylor said the donation will go a long way to bring the Bison Sports Arena on par with other Division I facilities.
"Shelly's been a tremendous longtime supporter and friend," Taylor said. "This gift really means a lot to our program."
The project includes renovating the existing facility and an expansion, Taylor said. Construction will begin once the funding is secured, he said.
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The NDSU Development Foundation has raised more than $4 million toward the Bison Sports Arena project, said executive director Jim Miller.
Ellig is one of 10 individuals or organizations to pledge$1 million or more to the Momentum campaign, Miller said.
Scheels All Sports recently donated $1 million toward the construction of a new $13 million business administration building.
Gary and Connie Tharaldson pledged $1 million toward the Bison Sports Arena project, Miller said.
The other donors have chosen to remain anonymous at this time, Miller said.
In October, the NDSU Development Foundation announced the Momentum campaign, NDSU's largest capital campaign. At the time, the foundation had secured more than$60 million in cash and pledges.
To date, the foundation has raised about $65 million toward its $75 million goal, Miller said.
Readers can reach Forum reporter Amy Dalrymple at (701) 241-5590
