MVNU launches Phase Two of On Deck Campaign for Cougar Baseball
PRESS RELEASE
CONTACT: Joe Huddleston, Communications Specialist
joshuddleston@mvnu.edu
740-397-9000, ext. 4344
www.mvnu.edu/news
JANUARY 7, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HEADLINE: MVNU launches Phase Two of On Deck Campaign for Cougar Baseball
CUTLINE: on deck-stadium renovations.jpg — The On Deck Campaign for Cougar Baseball launched Phase Two of planned stadium renovations to Cougar Field recently. This phase features new stadium lighting, artificial turf and new fencing among other things. (Photo courtesy of Mount Vernon Nazarene University)
MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — Mount Vernon Nazarene University has announced the launch of Phase Two of its On Deck Campaign for Cougar Baseball, a transformative project that will bring professional-grade amenities and enhance the experience for student-athletes for generations to come.
Building on the success of Phase One — the recently completed Tim Belcher Clubhouse — the campaign has already secured $700,000 in commitments from alumni and supporters and seeks to raise an additional $500,000 to reach its $1.2 million Phase Two goal. The university needs 100 percent of pledges confirmed and 75 percent cash in hand to break ground on the project.
“The Tim Belcher Clubhouse proved what we can accomplish when we work together,” said Mike Cheek ’82, Executive Director of Alumni & Major Gifts. “Phase Two will add to our vision of a facility that allows us to compete at the highest level while providing an exceptional experience for our student-athletes.”
The second phase of the campaign will fund critical upgrades including:
- Stadium lighting for evening games and extended practice hours
- New artificial turf for year-round playability and superior playing conditions
- Upgraded backstop to enhance safety and functionality
- Perimeter fencing for improved security and aesthetics
The campaign emphasizes broad participation over gift size, inviting anyone interested to contribute at any level.
“If you can only give a little, please give a little. If you can give more, give more,” Cheek said. “The size of the gift matters less than the participation itself. When we come together — all of us — there’s nothing we can’t achieve.”
2nd annual On Deck Dinner
Following a highly successfully campaign kickoff dinner last January, the campaign will host its 2nd Annual On Deck Dinner on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 6 p.m. in Ariel Arena’s Foster Hall. The event, which is open to the public, will feature MVNU baseball alum Mark Coulter sharing his story and provide an opportunity for alumni to reconnect.
Tickets are $100 per person, with proceeds benefiting the On Deck Campaign. Tables of 8 are also available.
For more information about the On Deck Campaign or to register for the January dinner, visit mvnu.edu/on-deck.
About Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students, and working adults. With a 327-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education both in-seat and online to nearly 2,200 students from 36 states, one U.S. commonwealth and 41 foreign countries.
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