Photo courtesy of Southwest Minnesota State University The large “SMSU” letters were installed Oct. 9 on the south side of Founders Hall.

MARSHALL — A “Welcome Walkway” featuring large “SMSU” letters was installed on Oct. 9 on the south side of Founders Hall, according to a Southwest Minnesota State University press release.

Alumnus Jack B. Suedbeck, class of 1973 donated funding to support the new iconic structure on the campus.

The letters measure six feet tall and almost 24 feet wide, and serve as a gift to Southwest Minnesota State University and the Mustang Family, the release said. It also stated that Suedbeck was eager to support a bold landmark and photo-op destination on campus for people to take pictures and share across social media.

A Marshall native, Suedbeck has followed the progress and growth of SMSU over the last few years, according to the release. He was inspired to reach out to SMSU after seeing the handmade mask story on WCCO in 2020. Since then, he has supported several projects on campus, with the large “SMSU” letters being the most recent.

“Jack wants to make a difference in the lives of his fellow Mustangs and understands what this project will mean for so many,” said Nathan Polfliet, associate vice president for advancement. “These letters are just one example of the big ways he is helping students and alumni take pride in their SMSU roots.”

In addition to financial support from Suedbeck, in-kind support from Bend Rite Fabrication and an additional monetary donation from Tyler Bowen, class of 1995, helped make the project possible. Local businesses involved in the foundation work included D & G Excavating and Doom & Cuypers Construction.

Tim Schrunk, Jeff Jennings, and Tony Nubile from the SMSU Facilities, Groundskeeping, and Physical Plant teams were instrumental in bringing the project to fruition.

Suedbeck received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering technology from SMSU after receiving his associate degree in 1971.

Suedbeck lives in Wisconsin with his wife, Rosemary.