A Leadership Legacy

Recreation Activity Center Named for Former President, First Lady

From their decade of leadership at Georgia Southern, Bruce and Kathryn Grube knew how important financial support can be to students. They also recognized the lifelong benefits of fitness and recreation.

Now, a landmark $1 million gift from the former University President and First Lady has provided for the naming of Georgia Southern’s popular and bustling Recreation Activity Center (RAC) in honor of the Grubes.

“Georgia Southern’s approach to student-centeredness includes a focus on physical well-being, and the healthy habits students adopt while here have a positive impact on their lives and those of their children long into the future,” said Teresa Thompson, vice president for student affairs and enrollment management. “The Grubes’ gift helps us enhance the kinds of programs we need to have that positive influence.

“The Grubes’ deep understanding of what students need to become successful citizens is highlighted by their generosity and is a testament to their leadership and compassion for students here at Georgia Southern,” she added.

The gift was earmarked for three critical areas: leadership scholarships, University Honors Program scholarships and recreation programming for students.
“Scholarships, recreation and wellness are significant elements of a successful educational experience at Georgia Southern,” said the former president. “Kathryn and I understand these student needs from our years of serving the University. We are grateful that we are able to leave a legacy to Georgia Southern University students. We certainly owe much to the many students who touched our lives over the years.”

Grube was Georgia Southern University’s 11th President, serving from 1999 to 2009. During his tenure, the University became a Carnegie Doctoral/Research university, experienced record-breaking enrollment and significant improvement in academic quality, as well as unprecedented growth in facilities and other resources.

Grube worked to build strong relationships with local, state and national leaders bringing collaboration and progress to the University and the surrounding communities. Kathryn Grube devoted herself to Georgia Southern and the community, contributing countless hours of volunteer work for the University and Statesboro.

The Bruce and Kathryn Grube Recreation Activity Center is a cutting-edge recreation facility and stands as an icon of campus life for many Georgia Southern students. Originally opened in 1998 just prior to the start of the Grubes’ tenure, the facility was expanded in 2006 to its present size of 215,000 square feet.

With more than 5,500 student, faculty and staff visitors each day, the Center offers fitness equipment, intramural sports, wellness services and meeting spaces.

“We’re highly appreciative of the fact that Bruce and Kathryn Grube feel so strongly about their continued connection to Georgia Southern’s students,” said Interim University President Jean E. Bartels. “So much so, in fact that they chose to provide this major boost to our student recreation programs. We’re very grateful for their continued service the University.”