Once a leader, the Merillat Complex for Physical Education and Recreation now lags behind other regional facilities both functionally and aesthetically. This places the University at a competitive disadvantage for recruiting and retaining students.

In addition to the renovation of the current facility, we need more space. The expanding demands of a growing student body — coupled with the in-season and pre-season requirements of our intercollegiate teams, place incredible pressure on the facility.

Expanding and renovating the Merillat Complex for Physical education and Recreation will strengthen recruiting efforts and enable faculty, staff, and community members to take full advantage of University resources for health and fitness. Funds also will be set aside in a facility endowment for ongoing operations and maintenance.