Suncoast Credit Union has entered into a long-term partnership with Florida Southwestern State College that will fund a new arena and student scholarships.
The Ft. Meyers, Fl. college and Suncoast plan to build an approximately 75,000 square foot arena with room for more than 3,000 spectators that will be named for the credit union. Plans call for the "Suncoast Credit Union Arena" to host the college's basketball and volleyball teams.
Tthe complex also is slated to include athletic office space, recreational courts and wellness centers for students, staff and faculty. The space will also be used to host concerts and events.
Construction on the new complex will begin with a groundbreaking this summer and is estimated to be finished by fall 2016.
Beyond the support Suncoast will lend to the construction of the new arena, the credit union also aims to improve financial literacy among students and the larger community. The Tampa, Fla.-based credit union also will new scholarship funding.
"Our vision is to establish a partnership with Florida SouthWestern that extends beyond bricks and mortar," said Tom Dorety, president and CEO of Suncoast.
Suncoast is the largest credit union in Florida and ninth largest nationwide, with $6 billion in assets and 57 full-service branches.
