(NBBJ) - Young’s Market Company, one of the nation’s largest alcoholic beverage distributors, has given a “generous gift” to the wine education center project set to be under construction at Sonoma State University this summer.

The Tustin-based company’s donation will go toward the Wine Spectator Learning Center, a 15,000-square-foot education and industry hub, according to the university’s Wine Business Institute (sonoma.edu/sbe/winebiz). Transformation of the former Sonoma State student center into the wine center is expected to start June 1.

The facility will feature advanced technology classrooms, a student commons and gardens, and a collaborative space for faculty and business leaders. Two rooms will be named in the company’s honor: the Young’s Market Company Classroom and the Underwood Family Board Room.

“There is nothing more important to the future of the wine industry than education,” said Chris Underwood, CEO of Young’s Market Company. “Sonoma State is making a profound impact on the future of the wine business, and we are honored to help the university continue its legacy for learning and innovation. Young’s is pleased to continue its longtime partnership with the university and excited by the collaborative learning environment that the Wine Business Institute will provide to a new generation of students.”

Young’s Market has been a corporate partner of the institute since 2008, according to Bill Silver, Ph.D., dean of the School of Business and Economics that hosts the institute.