FAU gets big pledge toward stadium

Palm Beach Post Staff Writer - March 26, 2008

BOCA RATON - Florida Atlantic University announced the first major donor for its football stadium Tuesday: A $1.25 million contribution from the teeth-whitening company SmileXpress.

A Web site for the company says it is opening "spas" in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton and Wellington.

The donation is part philanthropic contribution and part sponsorship, which could include naming rights.

The details of the donation will be announced during a formal ceremony at 3 p.m. today in the Tom Oxley Founders Lounge on FAU's Boca Raton campus.

SmileXpress has donated to FAU's athletic program in the past and is listed on its sponsor page.

FAU hopes to open a 30,000-seat, $62'million stadium by fall 2010. Its financing depends on bonds supported by ticket and concession sales, parking fees, naming rights and donations.

FAU is asking for $20 million for naming rights to the stadium.

But $1.25 million could buy a cornerstone, which are going for $1 million, or two elevators at $500,000 each

By KIMBERLY MILLER

Palm Beach Post Staff Writer