Evangel receives $1M donation for new sports facility

Evangel University has received a $1 million lead gift for a new outdoor sports and performance facility planned on its Springfield campus.

The donation comes from central Missouri philanthropist Shirley Rowden, according to a news release. Rowden and her family have owned several businesses in Sedalia, said Erin Hedlun, Evangel's director of marketing and communications.

“Our goal is to elevate the student experience on campus,” Evangel President Mike Rakes said in the release. “This gift will allow us to move forward with construction plans to house athletic programs and provide an exceptional training environment for our student athletes.”

A groundbreaking is expected to be held later this year for the project, which will be home to the school's football program, athletic trainers and varsity weight room. The total cost of the project has not yet been finalized, and university officials are continuing to raise funds for it.

The project is part of sports upgrades at Evangel following the unveiling last year of the school's new Valor mascot. In December, Evangel announced a $700,000 project involving outdoor basketball courts with communal patio seating. A dedication for that project was held last month.