WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Purdue Employees Federal Credit Union has donated $500,000 to the Purdue University Intercollegiate Athletics. The funds will be evenly split to help build both a golf and tennis facility on campus. The Tom Spurgeon Golf Training Center will be an all-weather, 11,400-square-foot facility that features eight heated driving bays for year round use, an indoor chipping and putting area and a computerized video system to help golfers improve their swing. Construction is expected to begin this fall. The 60,000-square-foot Dennis J. and Mary Lou Schwartz Tennis Center will include playing courts, locker facilities, offices, a pro shop and seating areas for fans. Construction is expected to begin in 2005. "We are grateful for the wonderful relationship that we have shared with both our friends on campus and in the community," PEFCU President/CEO Bill Connors said. "We have the opportunity to touch the lives of students and enhance the campus, while also contributing to these two facilities that will boost the quality of life for our own community members." PEFCU has had a longstanding relationship with the university particularly the athletics department -for example supporting the women's soccer, softball and volleyball teams. In addition, credit union banners can be seen in the arenas and former Purdue quarterback now San Diego Charger Drew Bees has served as the PEFCU spokesperson since 2001. This year the credit union opened the doors on the University's first on campus full service financial institution. According to Connors the gift is a continuation of the credit union's ongoing commitment of giving to various programs and departments at Purdue. In addition to the $500,000 pledge for the golf and tennis facilities, PEFCU already has donated over $144,000 to support various areas in the Campaign for Purdue effort and has pledged another $120,000 in future gifts through 2007. Funds received have been distributed to Purdue Convocations, Purdue Libraries and the John Purdue Club and WBAA Radio. PEFCU has also funded a $20,000 endowed scholarship in undergraduate studies. It is estimated PEFCU's cumulative contributions will near $800,000 before the campaign's end. So far the Campaign for Purdue, announced in the fall of 2002, has raised over $924 million to support efforts to increase student scholarships; recruit and retain faculty; fund programs, centers, and facilities; and purchase equipment.