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The University of Minnesota can now enter into licensing and sponsorship deals with alcoholic beverage companies — as long as they leave Goldy Gopher out of it.
The athletic department will receive about $300,000 per year from alcohol licensing and sponsorship deals under the proposal the U's Board of Regents approved Friday. The university's name and "M" logo can appear on beer cans or other alcohol-related paraphernalia, but the mascot cannot. A portion of the revenue will go to alcohol recovery and education programs.
The board approved the measure by a 7-5 vote.
Regent David McMillan, who voted in favor, said he was not "wild-eyed" about the proposal but said the money earned from the sponsorships can help with finances. He said he understands why people believe the deal will increase the potential of students drinking on and around campus, but he doesn't believe it will have as much impact as previous decisions on the matter.