HOUGHTON, MI--Citing a desire to "elevate the Seaman Museum to world class status," Lance Hampel has provided a gift worth $3 million to the mineral museum at Michigan Technological University. The gift includes $1 million in cash and Hampel's collection of 4,000 mineral specimens, valued at around $2 million.
"I am aware of the space limitations at the museum's present location," Hampel said. "It is my intent that these funds be used for the expansion and relocation of the museum's facilities to Quincy Hill."
The Seaman Mineral Museum plans to eventually move from its campus home to two restored buildings in the Quincy Mine Hoist complex just north of Hancock. The estimated cost for the restoration and move is $7 million. The museum has one of the largest academic mineral collections in the world.
Hampel is chief executive and owner of Hampel Corporation, a plastics manufacturer in Germantown, Wisconsin. The company provides plastic pallets and trays to manufacturers, shelters for dairy cattle, and molded plastic portable outhouses. The company also molds parts for John Deere, Harley Davidson, Navistar, and others.
Mineral collecting began as a childhood activity for Hampel. He also has an avid interest in mining history and occasionally speaks on historic mining areas and their minerals. He has done a considerable amount of international travel over the last 20 years to build his mineral collection.
"Lance Hampel's magnificent gift is a reflection of the commitment and leadership he has shown the museum over many years," according to Stan Dyl, director of the museum. "A gift of this magnitude coming from a non-alumnus of the University is remarkable. It will have a major impact towards our shared desire to relocate the museum and elevate it to international status."
Hampel's gift is part of Michigan Tech's Leaders for Innovation campaign, an effort to raise at least $100 million for the University. The campaign, which will run through 2003, will provide funds for scholarships, facilities, and the University's endowment.
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