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Evangel University invites community to dedication of AGFinancial Arena

Published on Oct 2, 2024 by Erin Hedlun

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Evangel University will host a dedication and celebration service for its newly-completed AGFinancial Arena and Randy Rowden Training Center this Friday, Oct. 4 at 9:45 a.m. Doors open at 9 a.m. The public is invited to attend. The ceremony is part of the university’s annual Homecoming weekend festivities.

The state-of-the-art 71,000 square foot sports complex is home to Valor Athletics including football, men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s soccer, and volleyball, and includes a 40,000 square foot arena and a 30,000 square foot training facility. The arena seats approximately 1,500 with a main concourse that doubles as an event space.

A 4,600 square foot varsity weight room, athletic medicine hub, 16 locker rooms, film preview room with theatre-style seating, and multi-purpose room with seating for 140 are among the building’s prominent amenities.

“I am filled with immense joy and excitement as we officially open the doors to the new AGFinancial Arena,” said Dr. Mike Rakes, EU president. “This state-of-the-art facility represents our commitment to excellence in elevating the student experience at Evangel. I can’t wait to see this arena come alive with energy, passion, and school spirit as it becomes a cornerstone for our athletes and campus community.”

A $10 million matching gift challenge from the Green family, owners of Hobby Lobby and Mardel, was instrumental to the project’s success. The matching gift was the second $10 million donation made by the family, with the first received in June of 2022. A groundbreaking was held in the fall of 2022 and construction began that winter.

The building was designed by Buxton Kubik Dodd and constructed by Williams Construction.

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About Evangel University   

Evangel University, with its embedded Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS), is a comprehensive Spirit-led Christian university located in Springfield, Missouri. It is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. Under the leadership of Dr. Mike Rakes, EU is committed to excellence in educating and equipping students to serve the Church and society globally and becoming compassionate innovators in their chosen vocations. EU offers more than 70-degree programs, including cutting-edge majors, pre- professional programs, and affordable and flexible online degree options.

EU is highly regarded and has been ranked:

  • #1 Best College in Springfield & #2 Best Christian College in Missouri by Niche
  • US News & World Report Best Colleges Top Performer in Social Mobility
  • Colleges of Distinction Best Christian University
  • Top 10 Best Universities by AcademicInfluence.com
  • Third Most Beautiful Campus in the Midwest by Christian Colleges & Universities
  • Top 10 Best Colleges in Missouri by BestColleges.com

With additional accreditations in business, counseling, music, social work, and theology and certification as an Excellence in Giving university, EU is focused on providing students with hands-on experience and real-world training for today’s professional careers. Learn more about the university at evangel.edu.