With estimates for the Memorial Union fire repairs costing millions of dollars, concerned alumni prompted the ASU Foundation to create a fund dedicated to restoring the facility they remember as an ASU landmark.
The ASU Foundation organized a fund last week through their Web site, asufoundation.org, which offers community members and organizations the option to make donations that would go directly toward MU restoration efforts.
The fund hasn't generated any donations in its first few days, but Foundation members said they are hopeful the notion to give to the cause will catch on.
"I think it's a great opportunity that this fund exists for students and alumni or whoever," said Jennifer Kennedy, editorial manager for the ASU Foundation. "I hope it builds and grows and turns into something really great."
Donors can find solace in knowing their funds will be placed in good hands and directed to a restricted account given directly to ASU President Michael Crow to use at his discretion toward MU clean up and restoration, Kennedy said.
"The fund always honors donors' intents and anybody giving to this fund is contributing directly to the repairing and rebuilding process," she said.
The extent of damages and repairs will likely amount to between $20 and $50 million, Crow said.
Funding will most likely come from various sources, he added.
"Part will be insurance, we don't know how much that is; we'll still have to negotiate that," Crow said. "Some we'll have to pay for out of University resources, but we still don't know the split yet."
After the University's insurance company comes up with an estimate for repair, Crow said he would be transparent in reporting a figure to the public as soon as possible.
But in the meantime, the official estimate for the MU's reopening will remain set for early spring semester. Only the first and second floors will reopen.
Steven Grady, a creative writing junior, said he's OK with surrendering a few months without his favorite meeting destination, but anxiously awaits its reopening.
"Personally, I would always meet friends to study at the Einstein's Bagels, or just hang out during breaks in class," Grady said. "It makes it more difficult to find a casual place to sit, relax and have something to eat."
But Grady said he understands the restoration project will take some time and effort, but fears it will infringe on his already rising tuition costs.
"It's nice if people care enough to give their own money," Grady said of the fund. "I wouldn't be surprised, though, if rebuilding the MU is added as a reason for tuition increases, though."
Reach the reporter at: daniel.oconnor@asu.edu.
