University of St. Thomas Athletics
Photo by: 2025 © Corey Gaffer Photography LLC
University of St. Thomas celebrates the opening of Lee & Penny Anderson Arena
10/24/2025 7:54:00 AM | Men's Basketball, Men's Hockey, Women's Basketball, Women's Hockey, Lee & Penny Anderson Arena
ST. PAUL, MINN. –The Lee & Penny Anderson Arena will open its doors to the public for the first time today, Friday, October 24, as the University of St. Thomas women's and men's hockey programs face off against Providence. Last night, the university celebrated a new chapter in its history, officially opening the arena during a private recognition of the donors who made it possible.
"This is a monumental day for the University of St. Thomas and St. Thomas athletics," said Phil Esten, Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, in his remarks. "I want to extend my deepest gratitude to those who made this possible. This facility will provide a transformational experience for our student-athletes as we continue to push forward as a Division I institution, while serving as an important asset for economic development and a new landmark for community engagement."
Gallery: (10-23-2025) LPA Donor Reception and Recognition
Designed as a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose venue, the 250,000-square-foot Lee & Penny Anderson Arena offers first-class amenities for both student-athletes and fans. The exterior reflects the campus's Gothic architectural heritage while integrating modern sports-venue elements. With spectator seating for 5,300 for basketball and 4,000 for hockey, the facility is built for flexible configurations—including hockey, basketball, commencement, job fairs, and other events—and provides an intimate atmosphere with exceptional sight lines.
Gallery: (10-23-2025) Lee & Penny Anderson Arena
This transformative project was made possible through the largest single gift ever to a Minnesota university: a $75 million donation from philanthropists Lee and Penny Anderson. Their generosity launched a comprehensive fundraising campaign that inspired support from alumni, families, and friends. The campaign ultimately raised over $131 million, showcasing the widespread belief in the arena's vision to elevate athletics, foster student engagement, and open new doors for community partnerships.
The Lee & Penny Anderson Arena is not only a physical landmark, but also a powerful symbol of vision, generosity, and shared purpose.
Fans can purchase tickets for the men's and women's hockey games against Providence at www.tommiesports.com/tickets.
"This is a monumental day for the University of St. Thomas and St. Thomas athletics," said Phil Esten, Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, in his remarks. "I want to extend my deepest gratitude to those who made this possible. This facility will provide a transformational experience for our student-athletes as we continue to push forward as a Division I institution, while serving as an important asset for economic development and a new landmark for community engagement."
Designed as a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose venue, the 250,000-square-foot Lee & Penny Anderson Arena offers first-class amenities for both student-athletes and fans. The exterior reflects the campus's Gothic architectural heritage while integrating modern sports-venue elements. With spectator seating for 5,300 for basketball and 4,000 for hockey, the facility is built for flexible configurations—including hockey, basketball, commencement, job fairs, and other events—and provides an intimate atmosphere with exceptional sight lines.
This transformative project was made possible through the largest single gift ever to a Minnesota university: a $75 million donation from philanthropists Lee and Penny Anderson. Their generosity launched a comprehensive fundraising campaign that inspired support from alumni, families, and friends. The campaign ultimately raised over $131 million, showcasing the widespread belief in the arena's vision to elevate athletics, foster student engagement, and open new doors for community partnerships.
The Lee & Penny Anderson Arena is not only a physical landmark, but also a powerful symbol of vision, generosity, and shared purpose.
Fans can purchase tickets for the men's and women's hockey games against Providence at www.tommiesports.com/tickets.
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