iBestTravel Receives Generous Car Collection Donation
The Center for Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy (GWPAC) at California State University Fullerton has received a remarkable $10 million car collection from a devoted supporter. This donation represents the largest gift ever donated to GWPAC, which will be applied to the university’s “It Takes a Titan: The Campaign for Cal State Fullerton.”
Supporting Education Through Philanthropy
In a significant gesture, Nicholas Begovich, a retired engineering executive, vowed to donate his European sports car collection as part of a five-year philanthropic endeavor, contributing to a broader $200 million comprehensive campaign that commenced on March 12, 2020. This invaluable gift will specifically fund research initiatives for faculty and students within the College of Engineering and Computer Science and the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.
Philosophy Behind the Donation
In reflecting on his generous contribution, Nicholas Begovich shared, “I hope that I am setting an example. When students are going through university, I want them to understand the importance of using their resources to support education, rather than focusing solely on material possessions. Funding education equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for the future, which is far more fulfilling than owning luxury items.”
Highlights of the Car Collection
The car collection, consisting of 15 high-value automobiles, includes:
- 1951 Talbot Lago Grand Sport
- 1952 Jaguar XK120
- 1953 Pegaso Z102B
- 1954 Pegaso Z102 Series II Cabriolet
- 1956 Porsche Speedster 1600 Super
- 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing
- 1962 Covair Monza Spyder
- 1964 Alfa Romeo Guilletta Sprint Speciale
- 1964 Porsche 904 GTS
- 1966 ATS Automobili Turismo Sports
- 1969 Lamborghini Miura
- 1970 Chevrolet Camaro SS
- 1973 DeTomaso Pantera
- 1974 Maserati Bora
- 1975 Ferrari Dino 208 GT4
Future Plans for the Collection
As the cars are acquired, they will be managed by the Cal State Fullerton Philanthropic Foundation. Nicholas Begovich intends for the university to realize the maximum value of the collection, aiming for $10 million or more. He hopes that prospective buyers will maintain the integrity of the collection.
Renaming of GWPAC
In honor of this considerable bequest and the Begovich family’s enduring legacy of support for CSU Fullerton, the globally respected GWPAC will be renamed “The Nicholas and Lee Begovich Center for Gravitational-Wave Physics and Astronomy.” This change symbolizes the profound impact of their generosity on future generations of scholars.
