Building For Success: New Academic Center Coming to UA

TUCSON–University of Arizona Director of Athletics Greg Byrne and his staff continued their facility facelift Friday breaking ground on the Wildcats’ new academic center for UofA student athletes.

Thank you to the Braccia’s, Lapan’s & many other families for their continued generosity to @AZATHLETICS! #BearDown https://t.co/FZJlUD1Uug

— Greg Byrne (@Greg_Byrne) February 11, 2016

The center, which will be build towards the outfield of what is now Sancet Field, will provide study areas, tutor rooms and a computer lab where students athletes can focus on their studies. The facility, which is scheduled to be completed by October, will also provide life skills, sports psychology and personal development services.

Wildcat alums Andrew and Kirsten Braccia were chief donors committing a $2.5 million leadership gift to assist with the construction. In addition, Dr. David Lapan and his family have committed a $1 million gift. The entire project will cost an estimated $7.25 million.