Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) officially celebrated the completion of Baptist Health Arena at Alumni Coliseum renovations with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 10, highlighting recent improvements to one of the university’s most iconic and beloved buildings.
More than just a place for sports, Alumni Coliseum serves a vital, multipurpose role in the student experience. With its recent renovations, the facility can now host a wide range of events, from athletic competitions and graduation ceremonies to Big E Welcome activities, concerts, movie nights, new student convocation and more. Students in various academic programs will gain hands-on learning opportunities in the new space, such as broadcasting, exercise and sport science and hospitality management.
“This restoration preserves a campus landmark while welcoming and inspiring students and representing the excellence that defines an EKU Colonel,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “Considered the front porch of the university, Alumni Coliseum is often the first place visitors come to on our campus and the last impression they carry with them, creating memories that last a lifetime.”
Renovation highlights include a new playing floor inside Baptist Health Arena, a 300-seat conference center and the Central Bank Courtside Club. Upgrades extend throughout the facility with new locker rooms, concession areas, player lounges, offices and meeting spaces. The project also added expanded areas for tournaments and special events, modern restrooms, an updated ticket office, a new fan shop, expanded sports medicine facilities and advanced lighting, audio and video technology.
The renovation of Alumni Coliseum was funded by a $53 million appropriation from the Kentucky General Assembly.
“The renovation of Alumni Coliseum is a prime example of how state investment in education drives progress across our region,” said Kentucky State Senator Jared Carpenter, 2000 EKU graduate and former Colonel basketball player. “Alumni Coliseum is at the heart of our community, bringing people together for learning, competition and celebration.”
Vice President and Director of Athletics Kyle Moats expressed excitement for fans, student athletes and communities to enjoy the newly renovated space. “With modernized amenities and the addition of a premium club area, courtside club and improved venue seating, the experience is much more fan friendly. The renovations also allow more of a variety of events to be held at Alumni Coliseum, thus connecting us even more to the Richmond and Central Kentucky communities,” said Moats.
With the renovations complete, Alumni Coliseum’s doors are open once again to welcome campus and community events. Fans can experience the new space firsthand during EKU Men’s Basketball rivalry game against Western Kentucky University, tipping off tonight at 7 p.m. in the Baptist Health Arena.
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