Southwestern University $1M closer to on-campus football with new sports complex

GEORGETOWN, Texas (KXAN) - An alumni couple's pledge of $1 million brought Southwestern University's athletic program closer to its goal of holding football games on its campus.

The pledge from Kevin and Elizabeth Dice is a step in the right direction, adding to a $3 million gift in 2024, but the university is less than half way to the $9.2 million needed to construct the new facility.

Southwestern officials announced their plan for a new multi-purpose sports complex to be constructed on the site of the football practice field, east of campus.

The Pirates football team currently plays home games on the field of nearby Georgetown ISD's Athletic Complex. The new complex will bring home football games back to campus for the first time since 1950.

Southwestern said the project will be funded entirely by donations and construction will not begin until the full $9.2 million is secured.

Plans for the facility prioritize the needs of modern NCAA Division III on-campus venues, the university said, noting it will be available to Pirate athletic teams like club and intramural sports, as well as large events like commencement.

The facility is slated to include a grandstand, press box, a synthetic turf field, locker room and concourse.

While the university seeks additional donors for the project, officials said they plan to name the complex's field after the Dices, "for their generous donation."

The first large donation for the project came in 2024. The Cullen Trust for Higher Education pledged $3 million, adding a challenge to the community of Southwestern alumni and supporters to match the amount. The Dice family told the university they wanted to help answer that call with its donation.

"This gift will leave a lasting legacy on our campus, providing opportunities for countless students, student-athletes, and the entire community for years to come," Vice President for University Relations Marie Muhvic said.