Sept. 27, 2002

Columbia, Mo.-University of Missouri men's basketball coach Quin Snyder and his wife Helen announced the launching of the "Q Foundation" on Friday. The organization's primary focus will be to encourage the educational ambitions of young men and women by promoting educational opportunities and literacy.

The Q Foundation will look to support educational institutions, ranging from pre-school to high school, and provide scholarship opportunities for educational enhancement. It will also focus on developing community center literacy programs in economically disadvantaged areas as well as promoting literacy through participation in reading programs.

"Helen and I are thrilled to be embarking on this endeavor," Snyder said. "We have always been passionate about education on all levels and in all forms. Through this organization, we hope to help create and enhance the educational opportunities our young people are receiving in the state of Missouri and beyond."

The organization will hold its kick-off fundraising event, the first annual "Rock-n'-Bowl," on Sat., Oct. 19 at Town and Country Lanes in Columbia. The event will feature live music, a bowling tournament and a barbeque. The proceeds will benefit the Columbia Boys and Girls Club and the Campaign for the University of Missouri Libraries.

The foundation will feature a board of directors that will oversee and guide the foundations undertakings. The President of the Board will be Coach Snyder's former Duke teammate: current ESPN personality and attorney Jay Bilas. Other board members include former Duke and current NBA star Shane Battier as well as several prominent business leaders from around the country and throughout the state of Missouri. For more information on the Q Foundation, call 573-882-1495.