Skip to Content

Posted by: Steve Kimmel 5 months ago

Shown in the photo above from left, are Ryan Warner, chair of the Bippus State Bank board of directors; Dr. Sherilyn Emberton, president, Huntington University, and Eric Fawcett, president and CEO, Bippus State Bank. Bippus State Bank recently gifted $100,000 to Huntington University and designated for the Merillat Complex & Fieldhouse (PLEX).

Huntington University has received a $100,000 gift toward the transformation of the Merillat Complex & Fieldhouse (PLEX) from Bippus State Bank.

“A strong and vibrant University is key to our local economy,” said Eric Fawcett, president and CEO of Bippus State Bank. “Huntington University and Bippus State Bank have partnered together numerous times over the years. Both of our institutions know the importance of collaboration, and that collaboration is vital to both of our successes going forward.”

He continued, “This gift shows our commitment to not only the University, but to our community. The bank is grateful for the opportunity to financially assist with this project. The newly renovated PLEX will certainly be something our entire community can be proud of.”

Work began on the PLEX transformation in 2022. The $18.7 million project will upgrade the 90,000-plus-square-foot facility to a best-in-class venue. Once complete, the PLEX will feature three large arenas and gym spaces, substantially expanded weight and cardio areas, a large entry lobby, hospitality suites, a pro shop, a hall of fame and larger classrooms, serving not just Huntington University student-athletes, but all HU students and the greater Huntington community.

“We are grateful for the significant support of Bippus State Bank,” said Stephen Weingart, vice president for university advancement. “The community aspect of the PLEX project makes support from community partners all the more significant for Huntington University.”

To learn more about the PLEX project or to be a part of the PLEX campaign, visit huntington.edu/PLEX.