Louisiana Department of Athletics has received a $1 million gift from Hancock Whitney which will provide support for a baseball clubhouse at M.L. "Tigue" Moore Field at Russo Park and the continued renovation of Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium.
In recognition of Hancock Whitney's investment and long-standing partnership with Ragin' Cajuns Athletics, the pavilion that is part of the baseball clubhouse project will be named the Hancock Whitney Premium Pavilion.
"We are extremely grateful for the generosity from our long-standing supporter, Hancock Whitney," Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Bryan Maggard said. "This gift will play a major role in helping us achieve a first-class clubhouse for our nationally prominent baseball program."
Hancock Whitney has been an integral supporter of both the University and Louisiana Athletics and has continued to make financial investments in the growth of the University and Department of Athletics.
"At Hancock Whitney, we are deeply committed to supporting our local communities, and our longstanding partnership with Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns Athletics is a great example. Our shared core values of integrity, teamwork, and a commitment to education make this relationship a natural fit," said Grant Guillotte, Hancock Whitney Regional Market President. "The Ragin' Cajuns play an essential role in uniting our community, rallying fans to come together and celebrate our team pride. Supporting UL and their athletics program isn't just about backing a winning team; it's about fostering a spirit of togetherness and shared success that makes our region stronger."
The gift from Hancock Whitney is part of the largest comprehensive fundraising campaign in the University's history.
Announced in November of 2021, Together: The Campaign for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette aims to raise $500 million. Among the campaign's priorities: the renovation and maintenance of training and competition spaces for Ragin' Cajuns student-athletes.
Athletics projects completed as part of the Together Campaign include Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium, Russo Park, the renovation of E.K. Long Gym, the Donald and Janice Mosing SAPC Auditorium, and the Golf Indoor Teaching Facility at Oakbourne Country Club.
The upgrades to Russo Park will significantly enhance the facility's functionality and appeal, featuring a state-of-the-art clubhouse designed to meet the needs of players and staff. The baseball clubhouse will provide a comfortable and efficient space for team operations and newly renovated coaches' offices.
The renovations will introduce dedicated indoor hitting and pitching areas in the left field corner, allowing athletes to train year-round regardless of weather conditions. These upgrades are set to elevate the overall experience for the team and coaching staff, positioning Russo Park as a top-tier facility on the national level.
The renovated west tower of Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium will offer premium suites, a luxurious club level, loge boxes, and club seats, providing Ragin' Cajuns fans new opportunities to engage with the football program and the RCAF.
Premium suites will include both indoor and outdoor seating, access to a climate-controlled club area, premium catering, and suite attendants. Loge boxes will feature private outdoor seating and premium parking access, while club seats will offer comfortable outdoor seating with armrests and beverage holders. Both loge box and club seat patrons will enjoy access to the exclusive McElligott Club and its amenities.
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More information about Together: The Campaign for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette is available at https://together.louisiana.edu.
Hancock Whitney Donates $1 Million to Louisiana Athletics
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Louisiana Athletics Receives $1 Million Gift From Hancock Whitney
Originally Posted by CajunVic
