University Housing Solutions continues long-standing partnership with Central State University through $700,000+ unrestricted gift

Students at Central State University will soon benefit from a $787,000 gift from Columbus-based University Housing Solutions to support activities and programming on the campus in Wilberforce.  

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The donation completes a $2 million pledge by UHS to Central State, Ohio’s only public Historically Black College or University and 1890 Land-Grant Institution. Previously, a donation of approximately $1.25 million helped renew the University’s McPherson Stadium.  

“University Housing Solutions is a great partner with a long-lasting relationship with Central State. We appreciate their continued support of our students as they seek new opportunities to excel in college and beyond,” said Curtis Pettis, chief financial officer and vice president of Administration and Finance at CSU.  

The public-private partnership between Central State and UHS began in 2008. Owner and president Jim Schmidt said the partnership is unique in that UHS typically reserves philanthropic gifts for private institutions of higher learning.  

“Our partnerships are part of our business model through our philanthropic efforts,” Schmidt said, adding UHS owns 8,000 college beds at private colleges and universities in the Midwest and Southeast.  

The late Frank Murphy, Schmidt’s business partner and former co-owner, spearheaded the 15-year partnership with Central State University.  

“Frank loved this school. He had a deep, deep affiliation and affection for this institution,” Schmidt said. “It’s the best-kept secret in Ohio. Our partnership goes beyond business — we’re friends of this institution and always will be.” 

In addition to the football stadium, UHS gifts supported the MPC and Honors College residence halls and Shorter Road Apartments, an $8 million housing project just off campus.  

“We can help institutions do things that they can’t always do on their own,” Schmidt said.