University of St. Thomas Athletics
University of St. Thomas celebrates $20M gift from Ryan Family
10/17/2024 1:00:00 PM | Athletics, Men's Basketball, Men's Hockey, Men's Soccer, Softball, Women's Basketball, Women's Hockey, Women's Soccer
ST. PAUL, MINN. – The University of St. Thomas Director of Athletics Dr. Phil Esten announced publicly on Thursday a $20M gift towards the construction of the Lee and Penny Anderson Arena by the Ryan Family.
"This is an extraordinary gift, and we are deeply thankful for the Ryan family's commitment to this project," said Esten. "The Ryan family has shared our vision for this project since it launched, and I'm extremely grateful for their support and shared vision in making the Lee and Penny Anderson Arena a reality for our entire campus community."
The gift - from the Joe Ryan '80 Family, along with Pat '75 and Ann Ryan - is the latest in the ongoing fundraising efforts of the campaign for the future home of Tommie hockey and basketball. In recognition of their commitment to the Lee and Penny Anderson Arena project, the plaza directly in front of and to the east of the arena, will be named in honor of the family. The Ryan Family Plaza will welcome University of St. Thomas students, alumni, and fans as they make their way to the Lee and Penny Anderson Arena.
"The University of St. Thomas has meant a great deal to our collective families, and we are honored to be able to make this gift to support this transformational project," said Joe Ryan 1980 graduate of the University of St. Thomas. "We believe in the mission and vision of the University of St. Thomas, and the impact that this project will have on the entire campus community. We are so grateful for what our families have received over the past 60 plus years from the University, and are blessed to be able to give back."
"We are profoundly grateful for the support of the Ryan Family. They epitomize what it means to be Tommies, and with this gift they are making a huge impact on the future of our university for generations to come," said University of St. Thomas President Rob Vischer.
About the Lee and Penny Anderson Arena
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.
