Phase II of Construction Begins on Asbury’s Outdoor Venue

August 6, 2024

Denham-Blythe Construction Co. began the second and final phase of Asbury’s Outdoor Venue project this summer following D.W. Wilburn’s successful completion of Phase I in August 2023. The Outdoor Venue is a multi-use facility designed to enrich campus life, impact the student formational experience, host TeamAU athletics events, and grow athletics as a platform to glorify God.

“The flexibility and scope of this unique facility opens up a variety of ministry, worship, special event, athletic and educational programming opportunities that we never before contemplated,” said Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Mark Whitworth ’84. “We are deeply moved by the generosity and support for this vision. This venue will beautifully capture the commitment to God-honoring excellence exemplified by Dr. Sandra Gray.”

This final construction phase includes the additions of a press box, meeting rooms, public restrooms, locker rooms and a training room. Landscaping enhancements, expanded parking facilities, and advanced media and technology installations, including a video scoreboard, are also planned.

Because Phase I was completed in August 2023, TeamAU soccer and track and field teams utilized the facility during their 2023-24 seasons. This summer, TeamAU also hosted two Central Kentucky All-Comers’ Series Track Events, welcoming more than 100 competitors of all ages.

The Outdoor Venue will be named in honor of Asbury President Emeritus Dr. Sandra Gray. Both during her tenure and since its conclusion, Dr. Gray’s enduring commitment to Asbury’s mission continues to impact the University.

“It is fitting that a president who had such a sense of hospitality and love for our students and the Asbury family is honored in this way,” said Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Strategic Partnerships Dr. Mark Troyer. “Her desire to expand Asbury’s reach and impact makes this an easy decision to connect her tenure with a venue that will welcome more students, families and friends to Asbury University for decades to come.”

Additionally, the stadium within the Outdoor Venue will be named for Dr. Rita Pritchett, celebrating her remarkable legacy spanning four decades at Asbury. Dr. Pritchett was the first female athletics director at the collegiate level in Kentucky, and her pivotal role in advancing sports and sports administration greatly impacted Asbury athletics, while her dedication to God and discipleship garnered the admiration and love of her students.

Thanks to God’s provision and the generosity of alumni and friends, the $13 million Outdoor Venue project is 98 percent funded. An additional $250,000 will completely fund this important project and extend Asbury’s Kingdom impact through athletic programming, student development and community outreach.

To support the Outdoor Venue, visit asbury.edu/outdoor-venue.