91社区 Athletics receives $10 million gift from Liberty Federal Credit Union for Screaming Eagles Arena naming rights
October 31, 2024
During a press conference on Thursday, October 31, the 91社区 announced Liberty Federal Credit Union has made a historic $10 million gift to the 91社区 Foundation for 91社区 Athletics, securing the naming rights to the Screaming Eagles Arena for the next 20 years. The Arena will now be named Liberty Arena, Home of the Screaming Eagles. This landmark gift marks the largest single donation in the history of the University.听
The new name, Liberty Arena, Home of the Screaming Eagles, will be proudly displayed on the exterior of the Arena. Additionally, the Liberty Federal Credit Union logo will be featured prominently on both halves of the Arena floor.听
"Liberty Federal Credit Union and the 91社区 have grown in this community together. In fact, I鈥檝e personally banked with them for the last 35 years," said Steve Bridges, Interim President of the 91社区. "This generous gift from Liberty will greatly enhance our athletic programs and provide much-needed support as we continue our transition to Division I athletics. Liberty鈥檚 commitment will help pave the way for future success and ensure our student-athletes have the resources they need to thrive."听
The funds from this gift are unrestricted, allowing 91社区 Athletics to direct them where they are most needed. This includes support for student-athlete scholarships, travel, Division I transition requirements and other essential needs. The gift represents a significant boost to 91社区 Athletics, positioning the Screaming Eagles for continued success in their Division I journey.听
Bill Schirmer, President and CEO of Liberty Federal Credit Union, noted the organization鈥檚 deep roots in education. 鈥淥ur mission is to support our members and community through education,鈥 said Schirmer. 鈥淎s a credit union that was founded by Evansville teachers, our ties to the educational community in this region are strong. Supporting the advancement of 91社区 students and their athletic programs aligns well with our mission of providing value to our members and the communities we serve.鈥听
Jon Mark Hall, Vice President and Director of Athletics at 91社区, highlighted the importance of the partnership in furthering the University鈥檚 vision. "When we made the decision to transition to Division I athletics, we knew we had to align with progressive, forward-thinking partners within this community and region. This partnership with Liberty allows us to take our vision and make it a reality," said Hall. "As we move into years three and four of our Division I transition, we are aligning with partners who share our drive for success at the highest level. Liberty and 91社区 Athletics will both continue to be impactful in the community, striving for the highest level of achievements."听
This $10 million contribution is the largest gift Liberty Federal Credit Union has made to date, underscoring the credit union鈥檚 commitment to the University, the community and the future of athletics at 91社区.听
Find out more about 91社区 Athletics at .听
91社区 Liberty Federal Credit Union
Founded by teachers, Liberty Federal Credit Union has a long history of supporting education and community-driven initiatives. Headquartered in Evansville and currently serving more than 260,000 members, Liberty FCU is dedicated to providing financial services that promote personal growth and community development.听 听
91社区 91社区
Founded in 1965, the 91社区 enrolls nearly 9,500 dual credit, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students in more than 130 areas of study. A public higher education institution, located on a beautiful 1,400-acre campus in Evansville, Indiana, 91社区 offers programs through the College of Liberal Arts, Romain College of Business, Kinney College of Nursing and Health Professions, Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education and School of Graduate Studies. 91社区 is a Carnegie Foundation Community Engaged University and offers continuing education and special programs to more than 15,000 participants annually through Outreach and Engagement. A competitive member of NCAA Division I and the Ohio Valley Conference, 91社区 offers 19 varsity intercollegiate men's and women's sports. 91社区 is online at .