WILSON, N.C. — October 19, 2019 — Barton College is pleased to announce remarkable gifts from BB&T and the BB&T Charitable Fund. Two million dollars, from BB&T, will be earmarked for the naming of a new stadium at Electric Supply Company Field. An additional $500,000, from the BB&T Charitable Fund, will be reserved for a strategic partnership between Barton College and BB&T to support and enhance local and regional workforce development.
“We at Barton College are gratified by this extraordinary gift and for the belief in our mission and vision that it represents,” noted Dr. Douglas N. Searcy, President of Barton College. “I, personally, appreciate the leadership of Kelly King and how his masterful vision and skillful guidance has led to a distinctive change model, ensuring a prosperous future for BB&T and those they serve.
“Barton College and BB&T share a like vision, and, together, we will create new opportunities for our region through this partnership, Dr. Searcy continued. “Our organizations stand at a powerful point as we prepare to pivot toward a reimagined future full of promise and prosperity.”
“Our partnerships with Barton College represent a long-term commitment to the future of our region,” said BB&T Eastern North Carolina Regional President Phil Marion. “Not only will the new stadium provide a tremendous venue for sports and other local events, but we will be investing in the community to enrich and develop the workforce in our area.”
This most recent gift from BB&T further cements the century-old relationship that Barton College and BB&T forged during the early 20th century and that continues to inspire growth and sustainability in eastern North Carolina and beyond in the 21st century. With a deep and abiding respect for each other, BB&T and Barton College share a vision for the future that requires successful adaptation to the evolving needs and demands of an ever-changing culture.
“Barton College and BB&T have always had a strategic relationship, and there have been a significant number of Barton graduates that have made a tremendous impact as BB&T associates,” said Wes Berry, BB&T Market President. “We are excited about the workforce development partnership and the future impact to the region.”
Barton College’s momentum in recent years is evidenced by this fall’s announcement of the largest enrolling class since 1982, a strengthened academic profile, a variety of new undergraduate and graduate academic programs, new co-curricular initiatives to enhance the Barton Experience, new football and women’s and men’s lacrosse athletic programs, construction of the Electric Supply Company Field, and numerous renovations across campus, as well as continued recognition in regional and national rankings. There is a remarkable vibrancy on Barton’s campus that has ignited an excitement and energy that resonates across the region.
“The stadium will stand as a marker for the continued growth and excellence of this College and for the expanding opportunities for the young women and men at Barton as they prepare for leadership and service beyond graduation,” Dr. Searcy added. “We anticipate construction for the stadium to begin in the weeks ahead.”
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