Hannibal-LaGrange University is pleased to announce that the Riedel Foundation has awarded a $12,500 matching grant to support critical technology upgrades across campus. This funding will enhance Wi-Fi accessibility, ensuring reliable internet service for students, faculty, staff, and community members attending events at HLGU.
The grant will be matched through HLGU’s Day of Giving, a 24-hour fundraising event taking place on April 3-4. The total cost of the Wi-Fi improvement project is estimated to exceed $50,000.
“Technology is an essential part of education, and keeping it up to date is a constant challenge,” said HLGU President Robert Matz. “These Wi-Fi upgrades will provide students with the connectivity they need for their studies while also improving access for community members who use our campus for events and meetings.”
Currently, Wi-Fi coverage on campus is inconsistent, with some areas experiencing limited or no connectivity. The planned improvements will ensure a seamless experience for all users.
“This grant doesn’t just benefit HLGU—it benefits the entire community,” said Riedel Foundation Administrator Sarah Deien. “Many organizations hold events on campus, and reliable internet is an important resource for them as well.”
HLGU serves as a hub for numerous student and community activities, including the annual S.T.E.A.M. camp for elementary students, a robotics club for middle schoolers, language classes for area homeschool students, and a free weekly computer coding league for seventh and eighth graders in partnership with local organizations. The university also hosts concerts, community clubs, and various public events throughout the year.
Since its establishment 25 years ago, the Riedel Foundation has generously awarded approximately $7.5 million in grants to non-profit organizations in Hannibal.
HLGU is grateful for the Riedel Foundation’s continued investment in education and the community and looks forward to the lasting impact of these technology upgrades.
For more information about HLGU’s Day of Giving and how to contribute, please visit https://www.hlg.edu/news-events/hlgu-day-of-giving/ or call (573) 629-3124.