Southwestern University’s new multi-purpose sports complex is one step closer to reality as Kevin ’81 and Elizabeth ’84 Dice have pledged a $1 million gift toward the construction of the facility. In recognition of their generosity, the field at the new complex will be named after the alumni couple.

“We are honored to support Southwestern and invest in such a space that will bring students, athletes, and the entire University together,” Kevin and Elizabeth Dice said. “Our hope is that this field becomes a place where a sense of community is fostered, traditions are built, friendships are formed, and school spirit thrives for generations to come.”

With the Dice’s gift, a total of $4 million has now been raised for the construction of the new facility. In July 2024, The Cullen Trust for Higher Education pledged $3 million with a challenge to the Southwestern community to match another $3 million in gifts to build the complex. The Dice family answered the call and is encouraging their fellow Southwestern supporters to help raise the additional $2 million needed to complete the Cullen challenge.

“The Dice’s have been a pleasure to build a relationship with because they are remarkable people,” Vice President for University Relations Marie Muhvic said. “We are incredibly grateful for this generous $1 million commitment to name the field of our new multi-sports complex. 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. The commitment of Kevin and Elizabeth is a true testament to their dedication to the future of our University, and we are proud to have their name forever associated with this important project.

“We encourage others to join in this spirit of generosity, as collective and financial support will allow this project to be realized and for us to continue building an environment that fosters excellence, growth, and community for all.”

Located on the site of the current football practice field east of campus, the new multi-purpose sports complex will be funded 100% by philanthropy, with construction expected to begin after the full $9.2 million cost of the facility is secured.

Southwestern Athletics and Facilities Management teamed up to prioritize and engineer critical functionality of the facility to more closely align with the needs of an NCAA Division III on-campus venue. In conjunction with the announcement of the Dice’s gift, a new rendering of the complex has been released. Included in the updated plans are a grandstand, a stadium press box, a synthetic turf playing surface, a locker room, and a concourse area.

The stadium portion of the multi-purpose sports complex will not only bring football back to Southwestern’s campus for the first time since 1950, but will also serve as a central location to build community on campus. The facility will be utilized by other Pirate athletic teams, including club and intramural sports, as well as for University events, such as Commencement.

Those interested in making a gift to the multi-purpose sports complex project can visit thrive.southwestern.edu or contact Vice President for University Relations Marie Muhvic via email at mmuhvic@southwestern.edu or by phone at 512.863.1484.