University School in Shaker Heights recently announced a transformational $12 million commitment to the school’s multi-phase campus revitalization. Richard (Dick) Matson has made a leadership commitment of $12 million to the $42 million Middle School Project, according to a news release. He recently made an additional commitment of $7 million to his initial lead gift of $5 million. Matson is a member of the University School class of 1953. He went on to graduate from Harvard University, earn his law degree from Columbia University, and then became a Wall Street expert in insurance securities and later created two hedge funds, the release noted.  After owning and operating a winery in France with his wife, Cornelia, they moved to Sarasota, Florida. “US is pleased to report that the new Middle School addition will now be known as Matson Hall, with the Matson name being added to the list of those legendary figures who have shaped US into what it is today,” Head of School Patrick T. Gallagher stated in the release. “We are grateful that Dick’s enthusiasm for all things US will carry on in the lives of boys for generations to come.” University School broke ground on the second phase of its updates to the historic Shaker Heights Campus in January 2024. The Middle School updates include completely renovated, state-of-the-art classrooms; an additional state-of-the-science STEAMworks Innovation Lab; and an indoor “porch” sweeping across the rear of the building, providing common gathering spaces for the community. In the first phases of the project, the school refurbished and expanded the welcome center and lunch commons, added a new play park with a turf field and playground, and revived the arboretum. The re-imagined Middle School is set to open in fall 2025, the release stated