July 23, 2009

California State University, Fresno President John D. Welty issued the following statement today:

The university community is saddened by the passing of Ernest Gallo. The Gallo family’s longtime support of Fresno State includes the Julio R. Gallo Chair of Viticulture and Enology, currently held by Dr. Robert Wample, as well as being one of the original donors of the Viticulture and Enology Research Center building. The Gallo Pavilion there recognizes this contribution. The margin of excellence at great universities is private support from friends like Ernest Gallo. Many of Fresno State’s most significant new academic and program initiatives have been funded through such support. We extend our condolences to the Gallo family and are pleased that the legacy of Ernest Gallo will live on in the many Fresno State Viticulture and Enology students and alumni who his contributions have helped.