Evangel University receives $4.6 million to build fine arts center

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Evangel University officials have announced receipt of a gift of $4.6 million to build a new fine arts center, according to a news release from the university.|ret||ret||tab|

The Rev. and Mrs. Lawrence Barnett of Fort Worth, Texas, presented the university with the funds on March 23, the release stated. |ret||ret||tab|

The Barnetts have been longtime supporters of Evangel and other educational and charitable endeavors related to the Assemblies of God.|ret||ret||tab|

"We chose to support this project because we have a great respect for the music program at Evangel University," Alletha Barnett said. "We feel that the fine arts programs at Evangel attract exceptionally gifted students, and we want to have a part in providing for their futures."|ret||ret||tab|

In response to the gift, Evangel President Robert H. Spence said, "We are deeply grateful for this magnanimous gift. Not only is it the largest single gift in Evangel's history, but it takes us a step closer to realizing our long-awaited dream of a new fine arts center. With this gift, we hope to break ground later this spring."|ret||ret||tab|

When completed, the fine arts center will house the departments of music, art and drama, and will be located to the south and west of the existing university chapel. |ret||ret||tab|

In addition to classrooms, rehearsal rooms and faculty studios, the 65,000-square-foot facility will include a 300-seat concert hall and a 250-seat theater for drama productions.[[In-content Ad]]