OSU statement on athletic investment

Friday, October 24, 2008

October 24, 2008 -- Oklahoma State University is issuing the following statement through spokesperson Gary Shutt in response to erroneous and anonymous blog postings concerning the status of the funds donated by Boone Pickens and reinvested in BP Capital, as well as the future of the west end zone project.    
 
Rumors circulating that the funds generously donated by Boone Pickens to Oklahoma State University's athletic program have been completely depleted and the massive west end zone project will not be finished are, without question, false.  They are simply not true.  
 
While it is our practice to refrain from commenting on specific donor activity, the fund still has considerable assets and plans continue unabated to finish the west end zone, which is the cornerstone of transforming Boone Pickens Stadium into an exceptional college football venue.  The west end zone project remains on schedule with an expected completion next summer.  The OSU/A&M Board of Regents remain in complete support of our direction.
 
Boone has been very generous to Oklahoma State University with historic gifts to both athletics and academics.  His gifts remain transforming and the impact of his generosity will be enjoyed by OSU students, faculty, alumni and supporters for decades to come.  
 
We are considerably further ahead now than we ever would have been without Boone Pickens incredible gifts, as well as the many others who have stepped up in recent years to support both athletic and academic programs and initiatives at record levels.  Thanks to donor support, we have tremendous momentum and great enthusiasm in academics and athletics across our campus and among our alumni.
 
And, finally, beat Texas!