Central Michigan University has always made it a focus to elevate the way that they attract and advance the next generation of Chippewas, while also providing the opportunity to host donors and alumni alongside current students. So, when the idea of the Chippewa Champions Center was born, it was clear that this state-of-the-art facility could fulfill the needs of faculty, staff, and students alike while also providing CMU with a marquee location. It would rally their alumni around causes and events that would support their college and student success programs.
To truly make the new Chippewa Champions Center a functional and multi-purpose facility, Bluewater worked with Central Michigan University to help ensure that the center fit the needs of everyone it would house, from athletes and donors to VIPs who were coming out for football games.
How Bluewater Helped Upgrade the CMU Chippewa Champions Center
Within the Center, over 50,000 square feet were dedicated specifically to CMU student-athlete excellence. Bluewater helped to update the space with cutting-edge technology for hydrotherapy pools, alongside CMU’s expanded sports medicine and rehabilitation facilities that would serve as the primary hub for the athletic training team. Bluewater also updated the weight room, locker room, and coaching offices to help round out the athlete experience.
Bluewater also worked with CMU to create meeting rooms and VIP event spaces throughout the facility that would build on recruiting and donor offerings.
In total, there are over 7,100 square feet of office and meeting space in this new facility and a 4,000-square-foot Isabella Bank VIP Club, which offers attendees climate–controlled and outdoor patio spaces as they cheer on the CMU Chippewas when they take the field through the center of the club. CMU also included 16 Loge boxes on the second level to offer one of the best premium seating experiences at the Mid-American Conference. In addition to the auditorium, tiered seating offers an incredible fan experience.
“The Chippewa Champions Center is a bold step forward for Central Michigan University, its students and its alumni,” the university states on the Champions Center website. “In addition to transforming the game day experience at Kelly/Shorts Stadium, this visionary project is a testament to CMU’s commitment to student success. ”
To learn more about how Bluewater can help upgrade your educational and/or athletic facilities, contact us today.
