The wait is finally over: Gratitude, awe overflowing at Fieldhouse dedication

“The wait is over. We’re done. Hallelujah!”

With that joyful declaration, Heidelberg President Rob Huntington captured the emotion of a historic day as the University proudly dedicated Frann’s Fieldhouse — a crown jewel decades in the making — before a crowd of several hundred students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members on Friday.

The celebration marked the opening of a transformative space that blends athletics, academics, and recreation — and honors the generosity and vision of Frann Zverina ’74, whose leadership and legacy made the project possible.

A force of light

Rob spoke with deep gratitude about Zverina’s passion and the collaboration that turned her dream into reality.

“Frann was a force of light. She would never let up,” Huntington said. On her last trip to campus before she passed away in 2018 after battling cancer, she was able to envision the possibilities of her dream. That emotional, tear-filled conversation resulted in Frann blessing Heidelberg with the largest single gift in its history, which became the foundation of the all-donor-funded Fieldhouse. 

Rob also expressed gratitude for the many partners and donors who helped bring Frann’s Fieldhouse vision to life.

“The collaboration of many partners in the Fieldhouse construction project was built on honesty, working hard together, and a commitment to get things done for our students,” he said. “We are sincerely grateful to every individual and company who played a part in making Frann’s dream a reality.”

Board of Trustees Chair Kathy Geier shared Rob's sentiments for the impact that Frann's dream will have on Heidelberg going forward. "What an incredible day," she said. "Frann initiated this process with a significant donation. Thanks to the generosity of Frann, many other donors and the leadership and staff, we have this magnificant facility today."

A dream fulfilled

For Ashley Helmstetter, Vice President for Advancement, Marketing, Alumni, and Community Relations, the dedication marked a full-circle moment.

“Today we celebrate a dream fulfilled,” Ashley said. “Not just the opening of a state-of-the-art facility but the realization of a bold, heartfelt vision from one of the most passionate champions of Heidelberg: Frann Zverina.”

She emphasized that Frann’s Fieldhouse is about far more than athletics.

“Frann’s vision was about academics, community, belonging, leadership, and ’Berg pride,” she said. “She imagined a place where every student, regardless of skill level, would have a space to play, train, learn, grow, and thrive.”

She also extended thanks to major donors, alumni, and the project partners who made the facility possible, calling it “a living, breathing legacy that carries Frann’s spirit in every footstep and every voice that passes through its doors.”

Built on relationships

Alison Marker, President and CEO of Marker Inc., Heidelberg’s longtime construction partner and the general contractor on the project, reflected on the collaboration and shared commitment behind the project

“Today is about much more than the completion of a project — although it’s a heck of a beautiful building, right? It’s really a celebration of all the special relationships that have made this day possible,” she said.

Alison credited the Fieldhouse’s success to the generosity of Heidelberg’s donors, the leadership of University partners, and her team’s dedication. “As a 100% donor-funded project, Frann’s Fieldhouse is proof of the incredible generosity of Heidelberg’s alumni and friends,” she said. “To the students — this is your space. Whether you’re an athlete, a student leader, or just looking for a place to connect, may this Fieldhouse be where you grow and belong.”]

A place for all

Director of Athletics Greg Cooper echoed the sentiments that the Fieldhouse represents the culmination of years of dreams and hard work.

“It is my honor to stand before you to share the immeasurable pride that I have for this day,” Cooper said. “It took a very large group of people to get us here, and to all of those people, I am eternally grateful.”

The Fieldhouse’s design supports athletics, academics, and recreation simultaneously — accommodating up to 11 different activities at once. Cooper said it will allow Heidelberg to bring events home that once had to be held elsewhere.

“The well-known Field of Dreams quote, ‘If you build it, they will come,” he said. “The next generation of Heidelberg students, partnerships with the community, and introducing thousands of people to all that Tiffin and Heidelberg have to offer will forever be a part of Frann’s and every single donor’s legacy.”

A student’s perspective

Brigid Enright, senior health science major and captain of the women’s soccer team, represented students at the ceremony, reflecting on what the Fieldhouse means to her peers.

“Standing here today feels a little surreal,” she said. “This Fieldhouse isn’t just about having a place to train or run laps. It’s about Heidelberg’s continued commitment to investing in its students … in our health, in our education, and in our community.”

For Brigid, the facility’s value goes far beyond athletics.

“It’s a space where friendships will be built, where students will find balance in busy schedules, and where future generations will feel the same pride and joy we feel standing here today,” she said. “Thank you for believing in us and investing in our future. Welcome to the Fieldhouse — and as always, GO BERG!”

View our photo gallery of the dedication, ribbon cutting and first reactions.