ANGOLA, Ind. -- Steel Dynamics Foundation, Inc. is making a $1.25 million gift toward the construction of Trine University's new Thunder Ice Arena.
In recognition of Steel Dynamics' generosity, the arena's NCAA-compliant ice surface officially will be named the Thunder Steel Dynamics Ice Rink, with the company's logo prominently displayed on center ice.
"As both our birthplace and headquarters, northeast Indiana is an integral part of Steel Dynamics and we are proud to support projects like the Thunder Ice Arena that improve the quality of place and quality of life for the region," said Mark Millett, President and Chief Executive Officer of Steel Dynamics. "We look forward to the recreational opportunities this project will bring, as well as the economic boost it will provide to the area and the excitement it will add to Trine University athletics."
"We continue to be grateful for the ongoing generosity of Steel Dynamics and all those who have chosen to invest in the quality education and atmosphere that Trine University provides," said Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D., Trine University president. "Steel Dynamics has been a longtime partner and benefactor, providing leadership on our board of trustees through SDI Chairman Keith E. Busse and Chief Financial Officer Theresa E. Wagler, establishing the Trine University/Steel Dynamics Scholars four-year scholarship program and offering internship, co-op and job opportunities to our students. In addition to their gift for the Keith E. Busse/Steel Dynamics Athletic and Recreation Center, Steel Dynamics supports the annual Trine University Scholarship Gala and many other projects.
"Our continued record enrollment, student achievements and alumni contributions to northeast Indiana and beyond, as well as our 98.8 percent employment rate for graduates, are a testament to the benefits reaped from the contributions we have so gratefully received."
Announced in April, the Thunder Ice Arena will be home to Trine University's men's and women's hockey teams, which will take to the ice in fall 2017. The arena also will host club and youth hockey programs for the Steuben County YMCA and local school corporations, and will be open to the public for skating at designated times.
The building is expected to be complete by the beginning of the Fall 2017 semester.
Steel Dynamics, Inc. is one of the largest domestic steel producers and metals recyclers in the United States based on estimated annual steelmaking and metals recycling capability, with facilities primarily located throughout the United States and Mexico. Steel Dynamics produces steel products, including hot roll, cold roll and coated sheet steel, structural steel beams and shapes, rail, engineered special-bar-quality steel, cold finished steel, merchant bar products, specialty steel sections and steel joists and deck. In addition, the company produces liquid pig iron and processes and sells ferrous and nonferrous scrap.
