Sonoma State University's Wine Business Institute announced today a generous donation from Young's Market Company, which will be used in support of the future Wine Spectator Learning Center, a 15,000-square-foot education and industry hub at Sonoma State expected to break ground on June 1.
There is nothing more important to the future of the wine industry than education," said Chris Underwood, Young's Market Company CEO. "Sonoma State is making a profound impact on the future of the wine business, and we are honored to help the university continue its legacy for learning and innovation."
The facility will feature advanced technology classrooms, a student commons and gardens, and a collaborative space for faculty and business leaders. In recognition of this generosity, two rooms will be named in the company's honor, including the Young's Market Company Classroom and the Underwood Family Board Room.
The 128-year-old Young's Market Company has been a corporate partner of the School of Business and Economics at Sonoma State since 2008. Young's Market LIVE was launched on campus in 2014, providing a forum for students to network with members of Young's Market Company leadership team. Since then, approximately 30 Sonoma State University students have been hired into positions at Young's Market Company, which operates in Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.
"For the past decade, Young's Market Company has been a faithful collaborator in our work as the global leader in wine business research and education," said William Silver, dean of the School of Business and Economics. "Their core values of integrity, family, quality and an entrepreneurial spirit align closely with our own, and we're humbled by their generosity."
Related links:
www.sonoma.edu/sbe/winebiz