It was a big day. Sept. 2, 2014. The news: Land O’Lakes, Inc. and our $25 million investment over 10 years in University of Minnesota academics and Gopher athletics. It was one of the largest single corporate commitments in University history and the largest commitment ever made collectively by Land O’Lakes and the Land O’Lakes Foundation. 

Together with the University, we’re focused on nurturing the next generation of talent. And our support is broad for student-athletes and academic programs, including student scholarships, academic and development excellence within Gopher athletics, internship opportunities and faculty research.

Just over a year later, another big day. Chris Policinski, Land O’Lakes, Inc. president and CEO—along with several other officials—sported a hard hat and a golden shovel at the ceremonial groundbreaking for the Land O'Lakes Center for Excellence. And because late October is pretty much wintertime in Minnesota, many in attendance donned “Building the Future Together” knit hats.

From that ground will rise a 60,000 square-foot facility that will house academic, nutritional and leadership development programs. With Goldy in attendance and music from the University of Minnesota pep band, excitement was in the air. The new facility is anticipated to open its doors this fall.

"The Land O'Lakes Center for Excellence is a direct investment in the next generation of leaders who will help us solve some of the world's greatest challenges," says Chris. "This center will serve as a cornerstone of our holistic partnership with the University of Minnesota."

The $25 million commitment to the U of M began in 2015 and will last through 2024.