DePauw University Secures Major $80 Million Donation for New Athletic Center

DePauw University’s Transformative $80 Million Donation

DePauw University, located in Greencastle, Indiana, has just announced a monumental gift of $80 million from an anonymous alumnus. This donation is not only one of the largest in the university's nearly 200-year history but is also set to revolutionize the landscape of NCAA Division III athletics. The funds will be utilized to construct a cutting-edge athletic performance center and a new Blackstock Stadium, both aimed at enhancing student-athlete wellness, engagement with the community, and enriching the experience for fans and families.

In an announcement made on October 6, 2025, President Dr. Lori S. White expressed heartfelt gratitude for the donor’s significant contribution, emphasizing how this gift exemplifies the spirit of generosity that encapsulates the DePauw tradition. The donation reflects the university's commitment to reimagining the student experience, allowing for the creation of a facility that prioritizes the health and well-being of its athletes and strengthens community ties.

Innovative Facilities for Modern Needs

The planned facilities will encompass over 70,000 square feet and include modern locker rooms, multi-purpose meeting spaces, and high-tech areas designed for athletic training and recovery. These amenities are expected to foster a culture of excellence and camaraderie among student-athletes and coaching staff alike. The addition of cutting-edge sports medicine facilities is particularly noteworthy, promising enhancements in injury prevention and rehabilitation techniques.

Among the features set to redefine the training experience for student-athletes are dedicated spaces for recovery, state-of-the-art weight rooms, and areas designed for personal development and social connection. Empowering students to grow not just as athletes but also as leaders is a prime goal of this development.

The new stadium will also significantly enhance the experience for fans and community members. Upgraded seating, improved concession stands, and accessible amenities will ensure that every event hosted at the facility is enjoyable and memorable for all attendees. With its modern design, Blackstock Stadium will become a new hub for university traditions and celebrations.

Sustainability and Future Goals

This ambitious project is a cornerstone of DePauw University’s overarching strategic plan, DePauw Bold and Gold 2027, which aims at elevating the university's standards and offerings in several facets, including sustainability. The new performance center is set to operate on innovative geothermal systems, which will provide efficient heating and cooling solutions, thereby minimizing the university's carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels.

The internationally recognized architecture and design firm, Populous, known for its specialization in architecting vibrant sports and entertainment environments, has been selected for the design of this remarkable facility. Their expertise promises to ensure that the performance center embodies cutting-edge design principles, focusing on sustainability and growth.

Looking Ahead

As DePauw University prepares for the demolition of the old Blackstock Stadium in August 2026, the anticipation builds for the opening of the new facility in Fall 2028. This transformation is not just about new buildings; it symbolizes DePauw's commitment to innovation, community engagement, and student well-being, setting new standards not only for its own campus but also within collegiate athletics.

The announcement of this substantial investment aligns with the launch of DePauw’s Bold, Gold You! campaign, which aims to raise a total of $575 million for various initiatives. Currently, this fundraising effort has already achieved $365 million—a testament to the community's commitment to supporting the university's vision for the future.

In the words of Stevie Baker-Watson, DePauw’s Associate Vice President for Student Wellness and Athletics Director, this significant gift will allow DePauw to provide facilities reflecting the pride and passion of its student-athletes and their supporters.

With a focus on innovation, excellence, and community, DePauw University is poised to carve a new path forward for its athletic programs and inspire future generations.