Celebrating Lake Superior State University and the Sault Ste. Marie Community

What is The Campus and Community Partnership Fund?

The Campus and Community Partnership Fund aims to strengthen the vital connection between Lake Superior State University and the Sault Ste. Marie community. Established by LSSU President Dr. David Travis and his wife, Dr. Lynsey Schwabrow, through an annual personal gift of $10,000, the fund supports collaborative projects that unite the campus and the city. By funding initiatives that celebrate our unique location, stunning landscapes, and vibrant college-town experiences, your donations help to shape the university and Sault Ste. Marie into a thriving hub that welcomes students, attracts visitors, and inspires residents.

How can I help?

Your gift to the Campus and Community Partnership Fund – no matter the size – fuels new joint projects that strengthen the bond between our university and the city.

Recent projects have largely depleted the current fund balance, and we need your help to support new projects concepts and ongoing collaboration opportunities. There is so much more we can do together! Thank you for your consideration and support.

The Impact?

The fund has supported several recent community-focused initiatives that have brought excitement and visible promotion of the university and the city:

A landmark letter installation was unveiled in 2026 to celebrate Laker pride, welcome visitors, and create a memorable destination for students, alumni, and the community. The bold new fixture strengthen’s LSSU’s identity and visibility while creating a recognizable spot for campus tours, student celebrations, and additional photo opportunities.

An additional letter installation is planned for Fall 2026 in the heart of downtown Sault Ste. Marie. Stay tuned for more details!

LSSU flags are displayed throughout downtown Sault Ste. Marie annually from July through October.

Feature films were funded in 2025 to invite the community to the campus Arts Center to see Twister during Engineers Day in the summer, and to support a screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show in the fall. The movies shown were free for students, faculty, and staff, and just $5 for community members.

“The Campus and Community Partnership Fund reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening the mutually beneficial relationship between Lake Superior State University and the surrounding community. Recent projects, such as the large LSSU letters, help promote both the University and the City of Sault Ste. Marie while celebrating the connection we share. Through this partnership, we hope to increase awareness of what makes LSSU and our community such special places to live, learn, work, and visit.”

Dr. David Travis – LSSU President

“The City of Sault Ste. Marie truly values our relationship with Lake Superior State University, and we thank Dr. Travis for his generosity. We look forward to continued collaboration.”

Don Gerrie – Mayor, Sault Ste. Marie