University of Denver gets $10M naming gift for new institute from family of Peter Barton

DENVER -- The University of Denver announced it has received a $10 million gift to name its new Institute for Philanthropy and Social Enterprise for Peter Barton.

The Peter Barton Institute for Philanthropy and Social Enterprise will bring together all sectors of the community to work on complex social issues such as poverty, education, homelessness and healthcare., school officials said.

Barton was the former president and chief executive of cable television company, Liberty Media Corp.

Barton's widow, Laura Barton and her family, donated the $10 million naming gift.

DU's lacrosse stadium is also named for Barton. Laura Barton donated $6.32 million to the lacrosse stadium complex.

"We are grateful for the Barton family’s philanthropic vision and leadership. Their gift will have a profound impact on our community and region for years to come," said Chancellor Rebecca Chopp.

“I know that the late Peter Barton would be honored, as our kids and I are, to have the Barton name on Institute for Philanthropy and Social Enterprise,” said Laura Barton. “We are excited to leverage our philanthropic power with this wonderful investment in collaborative philanthropy. We hope the gift inspires others to invest in this important work.”