“We are deeply grateful to Al, Debbie, and the entire Iversen Family as they continue to demonstrate their support for St. Thomas through Tommie Athletics,” said Esten.
“They have supported our vision for this arena since its inception and their contribution is helping to make it a reality. This gift will help ensure the Lee and Penny Anderson Arena can serve our student-athletes, campus community, and extended Tommie alumni and fans for generations to come.”
The gift continues the generous support of the Iversen Family which has been evident across campus over the many years, most recently highlighted by the Iversen Center for Faith, and the Iversen High Bay – an innovative aspect of the Schoenecker Center project.
This latest gift will support the Lee and Penny Anderson Arena project campaign. In recognition of this commitment to the Lee and Penny Anderson Arena project, the main atrium will be named in honor of the family. The Iversen Family Atrium will welcome University of St. Thomas students, alumni, and fans as they make their way into the Lee and Penny Anderson Arena.
“During the many times we have visited and walked through the University of St. Thomas campus, we have always felt the love, warmth and friendliness of the students and faculty. We will always support such a wonderful and virtuous institution as the University of St. Thomas based upon Christian values,” stated Al and Debbie Iversen.
“I’m deeply grateful for the support that Al, Debbie, and the entire Iversen family have shown St. Thomas. Their impact on our campus community has been profound, touching on distinctive elements of the St. Thomas experience, including faith, experiential education, and now the journey toward being an outstanding Division I university. We are blessed by their continued generosity,” said St. Thomas President Rob Vischer.
Construction is currently underway on the University of St. Thomas’ South Campus for the new Lee & Penny Anderson Arena, planned to open in 2025. This state-of-the-art facility will host Tommie Men’s and Women’s Ice Hockey and Basketball programs.
It will feature modern practice facilities, coaching offices, locker rooms, sports performance and nutrition areas, a second sheet of ice, and team spaces for Tommie Softball and Soccer programs. Additionally, it will serve as a versatile venue for campus events, benefiting both student-athletes and the entire St. Thomas community.