Campus News
July 29th, 2025
Couple makes gifts to GCF Athletics Campaign
Will name locker-room complex and athletics center conference room
Lisa and Mike Manzone have provided two naming gifts as part of the Garrett College Foundation (GCF) Athletics Capital Campaign.
The couple secured naming rights for the four-team locker-room complex and the conference room in the 700 Building, which is undergoing a $4 million renovation to serve as athletics center for the College's four outdoor-based teams. The Manzones' gifts raise the total of gifts and pledges for the $1.1 million campaign – which just started last month – to $300,000.
"Lisa and Mike have become really engaged at the College, both as donors and as volunteers," said Dr. Richard Midcap, Garrett College's president. "I appreciate their ongoing commitment to the College and our students."
The couple, who moved from the Baltimore area to Garrett County full-time when they retired in 2022, first became connected with the College through their memberships at GC's Community Aquatic & Recreation Complex (CARC).
"We started working out in the CARC," said Mike Manzone. "Then we met [GCF Executive Director] Cherie Krug, and she made us aware of some of the College's needs as well as its mission and vision for students and the community."
"We like to provide funding that can be put toward an immediate need," added Mike.
The Manzones attended last month's GCF President's Circle event at which the Athletics Capital Campaign was announced, and quickly signed on to the fundraising effort.
"Education of young people today is a primary focus for us," said Lisa Manzone. "We want to support young adults furthering their education and opportunities in any way that makes sense to them.
"Everything we've heard about what the College is planning for in the future very much aligns with our philosophy, and we are glad to be able to support this initiative," she added.
Lisa said the move to Garrett County was a great decision for them.
"Everything about it – the people, the pace, the community, and the access to nature all around us – has been wonderful," she said. "We are grateful to have landed here, and look forward to being a long-term part of this area."
