March 8 event celebrates expansion of Lied Center’s foyer

March 2, 2011

Thanks to the generosity of the William T. Kemper Foundation, the Lied Center at the University of Kansas now has a lobby that’s larger than ever.

The public is invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 8, in the new Kemper Foyer.

The addition, which added 1,800 square feet to the front of Lied Center, was made possible by a $300,000 gift from the Kemper Foundation — Commerce Bank, trustee. The expanded lobby will provide space for patrons during large events and will be used for receptions and meetings.

Mark Heider, president of Commerce Bank, said the Kemper Foundation is proud to have been involved in the lobby expansion.

“It is exciting to be part of something that is so important to the university, our community and the region and a place enjoyed by so many people,” said Heider.

Tim Van Leer, executive director of Lied Center, said he was thrilled with the expansion.

“The ribbon-cutting ceremony is our opportunity to dedicate the Kemper Foyer and thank the Kemper Foundation for their generous contribution,” Van Leer said.

The funds were managed by KU Endowment, the independent, nonprofit organization serving as the official fundraising and fund-management organization for KU. Founded in 1891, KU Endowment was the first foundation of its kind at a U.S. public university.

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March 2, 2011