SMITHFIELD, R.I.— Navigant Credit Union has donated $5 million to Bryant University for the naming rights to its new fieldhouse.
“The Navigant Credit Union Fieldhouse is a natural next step in a longstanding partnership between two Rhode Island institutions that, in recent years, have both experienced tremendous growth,” Navigant stated. “With Navigant Credit Union’s deep ties to Bryant Athletics and a strong Bryant-to-Navigant Credit Union career pipeline, the collaboration reflects shared values and a forward-looking vision.”
“This investment in both athletics and student and alumni experience strengthens Bryant’s position as a destination of choice for student-athletes and provides an extraordinary new venue for Bulldog fans,” said Bryant University President Ross Gittell. “The name of this facility represents a $5 million gift and also a strong partnership that will empower students, enhance campus life, and expand engagement with the broader community.”
The state-of-the-art, 43,000-square-foot Navigant Credit Union Fieldhouse will build upon Bryant’s reputation as a leader in athletic achievement, the CU stated.
"Navigant Credit Union is proud to partner with Bryant University on a project that supports not only student-athletes, but the entire campus community,” said Navigant Credit Union President and CEO Kathy Orovitz. “This strategic collaboration reflects our shared commitment to cultivating future leaders and leveraging talent to strengthen Rhode Island’s economy. Together, we’re expanding access to meaningful, real-world opportunities for Bryant students – right here in Rhode Island.”
Adjacent to David M. ’85 and Terry Beirne Stadium and Conaty Park, the Navigant Credit Union Fieldhouse is a comprehensive hub designed to empower Bryant student-athletes to achieve peak performance. It offers premier facilities for training, recovery, and wellness, along with enhanced locker rooms and an innovative media strategy room.
The Navigant Credit Union Fieldhouse will bring the Bryant Athletics community together with top-tier fan amenities, including the Black & Gold Club Lounge and increased seating to create a more vibrant and connected atmosphere. The 1,000 new spectator seats provide views of the football, lacrosse and soccer fields, while professional-grade press boxes on both sides feature unobstructed field views for members of the media and student broadcasters involved in Bryant’s Sports Industries, Media, and Promotion program, Navigant said.
The partnership will also allow for opportunities to enhance experiential learning for Bryant students, the CU said.
“Paid fall and spring internships with Navigant Credit Union, as well as new leadership development programs, will give students the chance to explore real-world challenges, grow their skills, and build industry connections. Navigant Credit Union will also have an increased on-campus presence with Navigant ATMs and offices for consultations and appointments with students, faculty, and staff. An exclusive affinity credit card will provide Bryant alumni with access to Navigant Credit Union’s banking services while supporting the university,” the CU explained.
In a recent CUToday.info op-ed, Defense Credit Union Council Chief Advocacy Officer Jason Stverak pointed out that credit union sponsorships of college athletics typically come with financial education components for students, as is the case with the Navigant deal.
“The idea that credit unions have somehow strayed from their mission by engaging in stadium sponsorships, sports partnerships, and marketing campaigns that proudly place their names in the public eye,” wrote Stverak regarding banker attacks on CU spoprts sponsorships. “…These partnerships are more than just a name on a jersey or a sign on a scoreboard.”