MSU Alumni partners with US Bank (cont.)
Murray State University Alumni Association has partnered with US Bank in a new affinity credit card partnership that will garner over $1 million dollars for the MSUAA over the next seven years.

MSU alumni, friends and employees now have the access to a variety of credit cards offered through this US Bank partnership, including the Travel Rewards Visa Platinum Card that earns reward points that can be redeemed for gift certificates, merchandise, cash and travel rewards. Not only does the partnership improve Murray State University's ability to offer members high-quality affinity credit products, but US Bank has also stepped forward in a large financial support as a key corporate partner.

Andy Graham, US Bank market president said this new Murray State University credit card offers alumni and employees an opportunity to support the university's programs and initiatives. "By using the card, the extended Murray community can show off its Racer pride and at the same time benefit alumni association programs and the university."

Graham said the Visa Platinum Card, with no annual fee, and the Cash Rewards Visa Platinum, that earns up to one percent cash back on everyday purchases, are the other two types of credit cards offered.

Darvin Towery, MSUAA president, said this new agreement is $650,000 above other offers which were negotiated by Jim Carter, MSUAA executive director and MSU vice president of institutional advancement. "We are in an elite group with this type of credit card agreement for our University," he said. "There are not many regional universities that offer this type of beneficial credit card program to their alumni, friends and employees.Ý US Bank is very aggressive about supporting their constituency base."

Towery said the proceeds from the previous agreement with MBNA have assisted in the construction of MSU's new Alumni Center. ""We have a beautiful new alumni building to showcase to our MSU alumni and friends," he said. "Through this new agreement, the proceeds will be used to pay off the debt of our new building, and all other profits will be used for other needs, such as scholarships and alumni activities."

Carter said the MSUAA is excited about the on-going benefits from this affinity card program. "In our negotiations with US Bank we were flattered to be identified by their corporate representatives as a crown jewel in their pursuit of affinity card partners. They have clearly demonstrated their belief in our university by their financial commitment and offerings to us," he said. "I'm equally excited for the opportunities that this partnership will bring to our alumni and friends for many years to come."

Graham said US Bank is committed to the long-term development of campus facilities and scholarships.Ý "We look forward to the opportunities that exist by bringing together the expertise of our two organizations," he said. "It is our pleasure to provide valuable card products and services to the Murray State University community in support of its mission."

The new cards are available through any local US Bank office, or through MSU's alumni and friends website at www.murraystate.edu/ialu/alumnihome.htm.