The San Diego State Athletics building was officially renamed the Fowler Athletics Center by the university last Saturday after a recent donation by a couple who has been supporting the university for decades. Earlier this semester, $5 million was pledged to SDSU’s Athletics Excellence Fund by Ron and Alexis Fowler in the form of a challenge to the university to match the amount within the next five years.

“The naming of the athletic building is a wonderful tribute to my husband, who has been a major supporter of San Diego State sports for over 30 years,” Alexis Fowler said. “It has been so fulfilling for us to see the rise in excellence across the university and an honor to be a part of it.”

As of April 25, the fund has raised more than $2.2 million to answer the pledge, which the university said is a sure sign that the Fowlers’ gift is bringing the community together in support of SDSU’s athletic and academic excellence.

Alexis Fowler is an SDSU graduate, and although Ron Fowler is not, they have given close to $10 million in support of SDSU, including the most recent gift. In 1986, Ron Fowler founded the Entrepreneurial Management Center, which the U.S. News & World Report has rated among the best programs in the country. Other donations from the couple have supported the L. Robert Payne School of Hospitality & Tourism Management and the recently unveiled Parma Payne Goodall Alumni Center.

The most recent donation and matching gifts can support any area of athletics, including scholarships for student-athletes.