HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) –The Charlie Obaugh Auto Group of Staunton has pledged $500,000 to support James Madison University’s vision for the future Madison District, becoming the first philanthropic partner in the university’s effort to transform the heart of its campus.

The gift includes a 10-year naming rights agreement for the Champions Parking Deck, located adjacent to Bridgeforth Stadium, and will help advance plans for a more connected campus district designed to enhance student learning, campus life and the fan experience.

JMU President Jim Schmidt called the donation an important milestone for the university’s long-term campus revitalization plans.

“It is exciting to see the Obaughs step forward so early to invest in our innovative vision,” Schmidt said. “When community leaders and businesses invest in JMU’s future, they help create opportunities for students, strengthen our region and advance projects that serve the greater good.”

Schmidt said philanthropic support and community partnerships will be critical as the university works to bring the Madison District vision to life.

The parking deck, built in 2001, was identified by Schmidt during his inaugural listening tour as a key area for redevelopment into a multiuse district that better serves students and visitors.

Eric W. Obaugh, president of the Charlie Obaugh Auto Group, said the family’s long history with JMU made the gift especially meaningful.

“As proud alumni, longtime donors and corporate sponsors of James Madison University, we find it especially meaningful to know that our gift is the first one for the Madison District,” Obaugh said. “We hope it will kick off many more gifts and investments from JMU alumni and friends.”

The Obaugh family’s ties to JMU span decades. Eric Obaugh attended the university in the 1990s, his wife Jennifer earned a master’s degree from JMU, their daughter is a recent graduate and their son is currently a student.

The donation establishes a general expendable account with the JMU Foundation to support charitable contributions and future naming opportunities for university buildings and structures.

The Charlie Obaugh Auto Group, a family-owned business founded in 1976 by Charles R. Obaugh Jr., has grown from a single Pontiac-Buick-GMC dealership into a regional automotive company representing Chevrolet, GMC, Kia, Mitsubishi and an RV and Outdoor Center. The company, headquartered in Staunton, also recently announced the addition of a Ford dealership in Waynesboro.

The gift supports goals outlined in JMU’s Madison Promise strategic plan, which calls for major investments in campus infrastructure, including new residential facilities, the Madison District and initiatives designed to better connect learning, living and community engagement.