Evangel receives $2M challenge grant for $18.5M Valor Center

Evangel University has received a shot in the arm for its $18.5 million Valor Center construction project.

The J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation issued a $2 million challenge grant for the 70,000-square-foot arena and training facility, according to a news release. The university will work to match the funds to help complete fundraising for the Valor Center over the next 12 months.

“Valor Center will significantly elevate the student experience at Evangel, providing state-of-the-art facilities for athletic competitions, physical training and other events," Evangel President Mike Rakes said in the release. "Great momentum is building on campus."

The $2 million grant from the Mabee Foundation is the maximum amount awarded by the organization. Formed in 1948 by Missouri natives and Oklahoma residents John and Lottie Mabee, the foundation provides funding to educational institutions, health care systems and other organizations, according to its website.

Evangel broke ground on the Valor Center and Randy Rowden Training Facility in October, according to past reporting. Williams Construction is general contractor, with Buxton Kubik Dodd Design Collective serving as architect for the project slated for completion in 2024.

Fundraising for the Valor Center is part of Evangel's $24 million Here.Now capital campaign, which also includes the renovation of Walther Hall and the installation of an artificial turf field. The campaign has raised nearly $16 million to date, according to the release.