New Facilities for TWU Business College
Merrilee Kick, a Texas Woman’s University alumna and founder of BuzzBallz, has donated $30 million to the university, marking the largest gift in its history. This donation will rename the business college to the Merrilee Alexander Kick College of Business and Entrepreneurship and support new initiatives focused on innovation and entrepreneurship. The contribution will help establish a new institute, create programs, and construct a dedicated business college building, enhancing education and opportunities for future female leaders in business in Texas.
In a groundbreaking moment for Texas Woman’s University (TWU) and aspiring female entrepreneurs across the state, Merrilee Kick, an accomplished alumna and the brain behind BuzzBallz, has made a hefty donation of $30 million. This remarkable contribution will usher in a brand-new era for TWU’s college of business, making waves not just within the university, but throughout the entrepreneurial landscape of Texas.
This inspiring announcement took place during a recent meeting of the governing board at TWU, where Kick’s generous gift was celebrated as the largest in the university’s history. It’s a staggering feat that blows the previous record of $15 million, set by the Doswell Foundation, out of the water. To honor Kick’s significant contribution, the college will be renamed the Merrilee Alexander Kick College of Business and Entrepreneurship effective August 9, heralding a new chapter focused on fostering innovation and empowering the next generation of business leaders.
Thanks to Kick’s visionary support, TWU will establish a new institute dedicated to innovation and entrepreneurship, create an endowed chair position, and kick off an entrepreneur-in-residence program. These initiatives are designed to provide students with a robust platform to learn from seasoned professionals while gaining firsthand experience in the world of business.
But that’s not all! This donation also means plans are in motion for constructing a brand-new building specifically for the business college, marking the first-ever dedicated space for this growing program. Construction is set to start in spring 2025, building excitement for cutting-edge facilities that will include finance labs, analytics labs, and virtual reality labs. These modern spaces will help students hone their skills while providing an enriching learning environment.
Merrilee Kick’s journey from a high school teacher to a successful entrepreneur is truly inspiring. Her educational background played a pivotal role in her success, as her MBA thesis eventually laid the groundwork for her popular beverage company, BuzzBallz. Launched in 2009, BuzzBallz has made history by becoming the only woman-owned distillery, winery, and brewery combination in the United States. This success story serves as a testament to the power of education as a means to achieve one’s dreams.
Kick’s connection to TWU reflects her dedication to not only advancing business education but also nurturing the mindsets of future female leaders in business. The new entrepreneur-in-residence program will allow students to connect with experienced professionals who can provide mentorship and insights into the world of entrepreneurship, helping them navigate their own paths to success.
In addition to her commitment to TWU, Kick has plans to continue her philanthropic efforts in various other fields, particularly in support of science education and entrepreneurial programs. Her dedication to education aligns seamlessly with her family’s legacy of teaching and fostering a love for learning—a value she holds close to her heart.
Merrilee Kick’s donation to Texas Woman’s University is more than just a significant financial contribution; it’s a bold statement about the importance of women’s contributions to business and innovation. As the college looks to enhance its identity and visibility, the excitement surrounding its future is palpable. With new facilities and programs on the horizon that will empower students and enhance their entrepreneurial skills, the Merrilee Alexander Kick College of Business and Entrepreneurship is undoubtedly set to leave a lasting impact. What a thrilling time for aspiring entrepreneurs in Texas!
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