The University of Wisconsin-Stout held a groundbreaking ceremony on April 30 for a $31.7 million renovation project that will update and expand its Recreation Complex, adding more than 39,000 square feet of new and remodeled space for student health, fitness, and wellbeing.
The project is significant as it aims to support student success by improving access to modern recreational and athletic facilities. It also highlights the university’s commitment to health and wellness for both students and the broader community.
Chancellor Katherine Frank said the initiative was made possible through student support via fees approved in 2019 and again in 2022, along with a $5 million donation from Dallas and Edye Pankowski. “We often talk about UW-Stout’s Polytechnic Mission – and at the heart of that mission is student success,” Frank said. “This renovation will support student success by prioritizing student health and wellness through modern, accessible recreation and athletic spaces.” The future entrance to the Sports & Fitness Center will be named in honor of the Pankowskis, whose gift is the largest in university history.
The renovation will add nearly 12,000 square feet of recreation space while remodeling an additional 28,000 square feet at a facility originally built in 1963. Plans include converting a decommissioned pool into a multipurpose gym, relocating weight rooms, expanding locker rooms, creating multi-use studios, building second-floor courts, and establishing a new entrance atrium.
Dallas Pankowski said: “We know that Stout has world-class laboratories to complement their ‘learn by doing’ philosophy. This updated remodeling and addition to the gym facility will take a just adequate building and make it an outstanding facility. Stout is a school committed to progress.” Senior Facilities Officer Justin Utpadel added: “Over time, the building’s infrastructure…have struggled to keep pace with student demand…This renovation directly addresses those challenges.” State Representative Clint Moses called it “state-of-the-art” compared with other University of Wisconsin system schools.
Student leaders Maraya Wiltrout and Ian Bryant spoke about how upgraded facilities would enhance athletics as well as overall physical and mental wellbeing for all students. Director Erin Sullivan credited campus leaders for advancing this long-term goal: “This project has involved a long journey…This renovation will transform this space into something truly special for our campus community.” Miron Construction serves as general contractor; Andrew Daniels noted that active jobsites offer applied learning opportunities for UW-Stout students interning with Miron Construction.
According to the official website, UW-Stout features modern labs linked with industry partners that enhance practical learning experiences; it received recognition as Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University due to its approach blending theory with application; functions within the University of Wisconsin System; focuses on preparing students for careers through hands-on learning; supplies laptops via its eStout program; builds partnerships supporting internships, research opportunities, career development.
