By NICK BUDD
Hays Post

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan announced a $3 million gift to Fort Hays State University at a press conference Wednesday morning. Funds will be used to construct a new scholarship hall on the Fort Hays State University campus for students interested in entrepreneurship.

“This is another sign of an incredible partnership between the Hansen Foundation and FHSU,” President Mirta Martin said. “This will strengthen the ties to the community because for us to strengthen Kansas, the region and the communities that exist therein, it’s about importing and retaining talent while growing and retaining our talent.”

Located near the current Wiest Hall, the new hall will house approximately 30 upperclassmen who have an interest in entrepreneurship. It will feature single dorm rooms and other amenities that encourage entrepreneurship including collaboration and meeting rooms, guest speakers and workshops. Each student housed must be pursuing a certificate in entrepreneurship, and there will also be other academic stipulations in order to secure a spot.

“Our intent is that some of these students will start businesses that will create jobs while they’re in college. For others, it maybe after graduation or further down the road.” said Mark Bannister, Dean of the College of Business and entrepreneurship. “We want to equip them with the knowledge, enthusiasm and understanding for entrepreneurship because we know the future of business in this region is dependent upon startup businesses, new businesses and on our existing businesses acting in an entrepreneurial way.”

The dorm is projected to be completed by fall 2016. The gift is the second largest gift in the university’s 100-plus year history.