Baseball Program Receives $1 Million Gift May 2006 Golden Flash baseball fans will be rooting for their home team at the newly named Olga A. Mural Baseball Field. On May 24, the Kent State University Board of Trustees officially named the field in recognition of a $1 million commitment from Akron philanthropist Olga A. Mural. The $3 million initiative, begun in 2004, also resulted in naming of the Hal and Julia Schoonover Stadium. "Olga's generous commitment brings us within inches of our goal to completely renovate and expand our facilities for Kent State baseball," Athletic Director Laing Kennedy said. "Our playing surface is now on par or better than any field in the Mid-American Conference, or in the country." The gift allows for completion of indoor locker rooms and a team meeting room. In addition, $250,000 of the gift will endow scholarships that help student-athletes meet the dual demands of academic study and athletic competition. "It's very rewarding to be a part of the university, to have the students know me, and to see that I can make a difference for them," Mrs. Mural said. "My philanthropy at Kent State is a very meaningful part of my life." Her late husband, Walter, earned a degree in accounting from Kent State's College of Business Administration in 1941. In all, Mural has committed more than $4 million to assist students and build academic programs at Kent State University. "We are all very grateful to Olga Mural. Her generosity will directly enhance our program and allow our players to have the facilities they deserve," said Scott Stricklin, '95, head baseball coach. "Olga is an individual who truly cares about young people and will extend a hand to give them great opportunities. She wants to see others happy and, like an angel, she has a beautiful smile that spreads happiness to many of us here at Kent State."