University of North Alabama Partners with HPM: The University of North Alabama has joined forces with HPM and Davis Architects for the design and construction of Bank Independent Stadium, a multi-purpose facility scheduled to open in the 2026-27 athletic year.
The stadium, intended for year-round use in football, soccer, and baseball, is set to become a community asset. UNA Athletics Director Josh Looney expressed gratitude for the support received since the project’s announcement in June, marking a significant milestone in its development.
Birmingham-based HPM, known for its involvement in projects like Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium and Protective Stadium in Birmingham, will oversee the entire process, from pre-planning to construction and post-construction. Looney emphasized their partnership and HPM’s role as an extension of the University of North Alabama.
Davis Architecture, also based in Birmingham and established in 1912, joins the collaboration. With extensive experience in state construction projects, they have been part of notable ventures like Bryant-Denny Stadium, the Mal Moore Athletic Facility, and Sewell-Thomas Stadium in Tuscaloosa.
Bank Independent Stadium will replace the current UNA practice fields and Mike Lane Stadium, the school’s baseball park. Once completed, the Lions will move from Braly Municipal Stadium, their home for football games since 1949.
The University of North Alabama transitioned from Division II to the FCS level in 2018 and joined the ASUN Conference in 2022. Under first-year coach Brent Dearmon, the Lions recorded a 3-8 season in 2023.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What is the University of North Alabama endowment?
On Jan. 13, 2022 in FLORENCE, AL, the University of North Alabama Foundation Endowment has exceeded $53 million, representing a 100% increase in the past decade. This substantial growth is the largest in the endowment’s history since it was established in 1980.
Is University of North Alabama a d1 school?
The Lions are part of the NCAA Division I and participate in the ASUN Conference for most sports, except football, where they compete in the United Athletic Conference. The university boasts 14 varsity sports teams, including six men’s teams and eight women’s teams.
Who is the director of athletics at University of North Alabama?
Dr. Josh Looney, the Director of Athletics, can be reached at 256-765-4397. Sherry Kennemer, the Senior Associate Athletic Director for Student Success, is available at 256-765-4694. For any business affairs or senior woman administrator matters, seek out Debbie Williams, the Associate Athletic Director, at 256-765-4788.
Why choose University of North Alabama?
Situated in the peaceful city of Florence, Alabama, the University of North Alabama (UNA) stands as a beacon of quality education at an affordable cost. Recognized by “U.S. News and World Report America’s Best Colleges,” UNA takes pride in providing a safe and secure learning environment for its students. Take a closer look at Florence, one of the safest cities in the United States, and discover the unparalleled educational opportunities that UNA has to offer.