DETROIT-The Wayne State University Department of Athletics unveiled its marquee today during a ribbon-cutting ceremony with WSU President Dr. Irvin D. Reid, athletic director Rob Fournier, board of governor representatives and corporate sponsors.

"The project means a lot to our long-term objective for athletics," stated athletics director Rob Fournier. "The structural significance of the marquee at 85 feet represents a lot in reference to our aspirations, our place in the City and heights to which we will move our athletic department. In a period of diminished resources, the corporate support that provided the
funding underscores the associations we must build with the private sector to be successful. Without the commitment of Farm Bureau Insurance, National City Bank and Blue Cross/Blue Shield, this project could not have been accomplished. I appreciate their support of our University agenda and student-athletes."

Sam Gianino, president for National City in Detroit/Southeast Michigan, said, "This is our third year as a corporate sponsor of Wayne State athletics. National City is proud of our tradition of supporting excellence in our hometown and responding to the particular needs of local institutions. With this new outdoor marquee, as well as the new football and baseball scoreboards, our bank is literally transforming the outdoor landscape at WSU."