Howard Community College still has a $1 million fundraising deficit even as the $20 million Peter and Elizabeth Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center opens in time for the fall semester.
“We are still in the process of raising funds for the building,” said Randy Bengfort, director of public relations and marketing at the college.
“We?re hopeful.”
The building?s official opening occurred Monday, but people can still donate $10,000 for a concert grand piano or $500 for a recital hall seat, among other gift possibilities listed on the college?s Web site at www.howardcc.edu.
If the college does not raise the rest of the money by December, it will have to take out a bond from the county, which is similar to a loan and will require the college to pay interest.
But Bengfort said the college has a few prospects, including real estate trust General Growth Properties Inc.
General Growth General Manager Doug Godine was not available for comment.
The largest donation the center received was from the building?s namesakes, who donated $1 million and a collection of valuable Russian realist paintings.
“We are so happy with the way the building has turned out. It?s just gorgeous,” Columbia resident Peter Horowitz said.
“It?s a great community service.”
The Columbia Association recently nixed a proposal to donate $200,000 to the college?s art center after weeks of debate.
The 78,000-square-foot building will house the college?s visual, performing and media arts programs beginning this year.
AT A GLANCE
Major donors to Howard Community College?s Peter and Elizabeth Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts Center:
» $10 million from the state government
» $5 million from the county government
» $1 million from Peter and Elizabeth Horowitz
» Approximately $300,000 from Howard Community College employees in combination with other fundraising
» Undisclosed amounts from the Rouse Company Foundation, John G. Monteabaro Foundation, Thomas Akins and Jim and Dessie Moxley
Source: Howard Community College
