Charles Benson Bear '39 Recreation and Athletic Center
As the construction was completed on the natatorium and fieldhouse, the fundraising progress continues, thanks to recent contributions to the project.
The athletic coaches and staff believed so strongly in the how the Bear Center would fulfill its promise of wellness and athleticism, they set a 100 percent goal of participating with a gift for the Bear Center. In recognition of achieving their goal, the suite of athletic offices was named the "Pioneer Suite." Go Pioneers!
Generous donors gave their support to generations of student athletes including:
- a $330,000 bequest for a climbing wall in the new fieldhouse,
- a $50,000 gift for a swim meet management room in the new natatorium, and
- a $35,000 gift for coaching offices.
As the activities increase in these spaces, there are still recognition opportunities available. Gifts to the Charles Benson Bear '39 Recreation and Athletic Center may be made in honor of influential individuals. Contact Rod Schultz, managing associate director of development, 641-269-3214, schultzr@grinnell.edu to identify opportunities to make a difference for Grinnell students. Gifts can be made online as well.
Facilities that Inspire the Human Spirit
Swimming and Diving teams photographed mid-construction in the now completed natatorium
Athletics and fitness have always been an integral part of the Grinnell liberal arts tradition. Today, nearly one-third of our students actively participate in some aspect of the intercollegiate athletic program, and several of our varsity teams consistently stand out in Division III competition.
The new facilities enable our student-athletes to train and compete at the highest level of their abilities, while showcasing Grinnell's superb campus as we host future Midwest Conference and NCAA meets and championships.
Importantly, the center benefits the larger College community, providing a modern place where all students, faculty, and administrators can pursue their fitness and recreational interests. It also enhances our special relationship with the town community in which we live. Grinnell High School swimmers train in our swimming pool, and members of the community enjoy broad access to our athletic and fitness facilities.
The geothermal heating and cooling systems and a variety of environmental features of the buildings are other vital expressions of Grinnell's commitment to preserve and protect our planet.
Tennis and Track Field teams in front of the Fieldhouse during construction.
The footprint of the entire complex resembles a reversed 'L.' The fieldhouse, with offices for the physical education staff, flows into the existing fitness center. The fitness center abuts Darby Gym, which connects to the natatorium through an underground link containing several locker rooms.
Charles Benson Bear '39 Recreation and Athletic Center
An inspired design by the firms of Pelli, Clark, Pelli Architects and Sasaki Associates seamlessly integrate Phase II of the Charles Benson Bear '39 Recreation and Athletic Center with the existing facilities. It provides our students with a remarkable, holistic resource to pursue personal goals and competitive challenges. Whether they're seeking Grinnell's next consecutive conference title in swimming and diving in the natatorium, pushing their their personal records on the track in the new fieldhouse, or finding a release from the strains of academic life on the climbing wall, superior facilities encourage their determination and inspire their spirit.
The fieldhouse is north of the existing performance gym, the natatorium with a new multipurpose swimming pool is to the west. The complex runs along the east and south sides of Rosenbloom Field, resembling reversed 'L.'
Information about Phase II:
- Total square footage: 200,000 square feet
- Cost: $68.5 million (approximately $4 million under budget)
- 83% of the $25 million in private fund have been raised.
- Date of completion: August 2010
