SWU adding outdoor event venue
Southern Wesleyan University’s new amphitheater, featuring a covered stage under development, promises to be an inviting venue for students and residents of the surrounding community to enjoy concerts and other outdoor events. The facility, designed to accommodate more than 300, is expected to be finished this fall.
In the near future, Southern Wesleyan University will offer the Central area a special gathering place, an inviting spot to spread a blanket or bring out lawn chairs to enjoy live music under the stars and other outdoor events.
Originally envisioned by Southern Wesleyan’s president, Dr. Todd Voss, a new amphitheater is nearing completion at the Central campus. This outdoor tiered space, located along Wesleyan Drive between Newton Hobson Chapel and Fine Arts Center and Nicholson-Mitchell Christian Ministry Center, will host a variety of events, including concerts, speakers and movies. According to Voss, the amphitheater’s six grass-lined rows will offer ample space for seating more than 300 guests as well as a covered stage wired for lighting and sound equipment. The facility is expected to be completed by early fall.
“The Fine Arts Division is excited about the possibilities that await with the completion of the new amphitheater. It will provide another venue for visiting artists and for our own SWU students,” said Jane Dill, chair of the university’s Fine Arts Division. Dill added that the amphitheater presents an attractive option for local music festivals. “We appreciate the vision of Dr. Voss and the work of the physical plant on this project,” Dill said. The amphitheater will also be available to student groups on campus.
Dr. Lisa McWherter, Southern Wesleyan’s vice president for advancement, feels that the new amphitheater will be an asset to the community and serves as a tangible example of the “contagious generosity” SWU is increasingly becoming known for in the region. “SWU and the Town of Central are master planning with students and community members in mind--this amphitheater will be a special place for both,” said McWherter.
Phillip Mishoe, town of Central administrator said, the “amphitheater looks great” and the “Town is thrilled by the construction that’s going on at SWU.” Mishoe says they look forward to having events on campus jointly hosted by the town and university.
For details about naming opportunities, contact the Advancement Office at (864) 644-5006 or email .
Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused learning community devoted to transforming lives by challenging students to be dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ. For details about degree programs, go online to swu.edu.
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