The Department of Development works with University benefactors to ensure that their interests coincide with those of the University. By developing lasting relationships with alumni and friends of the University, development officers help donors explore their charitable interests and how they can benefit the University.

The University of Akron welcomed a new landmark as the installation of a sculpture by internationally renowned artist Dale Chihuly was completed in July 2005. The 40-foot tower of iridescent blue polymer located in front of the Goodyear Polymer Center is a vivid combination of science and art. Landscaping and lighting will be added and a dedication ceremony will take place during fall semester.

The stunning addition to campus was made possible through $475,000 in private donations from the Louis Myers Family, Folk Charitable Trust and the Bayer Corporation.

Mary Schiller Myers led the way for the addition of a Dale Chihuly sculpture at The University of Akron through her challenge gift. The Myers family founded Myers Tire Supply in 1933, which has since evolved into Myers Industries, Inc., an international manufacturer of polymer products based in Akron. The late Louis Myers was the Chairman, CEO and Director of Myers Industries, Inc. Mrs. Myers earned a bachelor of fine arts degree from The University of Akron. She received the Alumni Honor Award in 1990 and an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree from The University of Akron in 2003 in recognition for her numerous accomplishments in the art world. The Mary Schiller Myers School of Art at The University of Akron is named in her honor.

Folk Charitable Trust, led by George W. Daverio, Jr., met Mrs. Myers’ financial challenge to begin the project and the Bayer Corporation in Pittsburgh donated the polymer materials. The University of Akron is grateful for the philanthropic vision of these donors and their commitment to the creation of art that will shine in Akron for generations to come.

The University of Akron is only the third installation by Dale Chihuly in the state of Ohio. The Cincinnati Art Museum and the Toledo Public Library both have indoor Chihuly art. Some of Dale Chihuly’s most memorable installations include “Crystal Tree of Light” originally in the Grand Foyer of the White House and now permanently installed at the William J. Clinton Presidential Center, “Chihuly Over Venice” (1995-96), Chihuly in the Light of Jerusalem 2000 at the Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem” (2000), and Chihuly in the Park: A Garden of Glass at Chicago’s Garfield Park Conservatory (2001-2002).