University of Northern Iowa Athletics
Fick family pledges major contribution to UNI-Dome campaign
5/23/2024 2:00:00 PM | General
CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – Dan and Deb (Swartzendruber) Fick of Coralville have thrown their support behind the historic renovation of the UNI-Dome. The Ficks' gift to the UNI-Dome project adds to their enduring scholarship support for student-athletes and future teachers at UNI. In honor of the family's investment, the Ficks will be recognized with a premier named space in the new UNI-Dome facility.
The couple, both 1985 UNI alumni, say the UNI-Dome has played host to cherished memories for their family, and they want to be a part of bringing that experience to others in the decades to come.
Five generations of the Ficks have cheered their loved ones on in competition in the facility. Dan, as well as his children Allison, '13, and Ben, '17, ran track for the university.
"I had the privilege of racing in front of my grandparents and parents, of watching my children compete in the Dome, and holding my grandchildren watching football games," Dan said. "I am excited about the possibility of seeing those same grandkids compete for UNI in the Dome."
"We are grateful to Dan, Deb and the entire Fick family for their incredible generosity," said Megan Franklin, director of athletics. "The Ficks' multi-generational story speaks volumes about their family's tremendous passion for the Panthers, as well as their loyal and giving spirit. We are honored that they have strengthened their family's lasting UNI legacy with this gift that will ensure future generations can create their own memories at the UNI-Dome."
The Ficks regard the UNI-Dome as one of the finest aspects of the university, and attest to its importance as a large-event community space as well as an economic driver for local businesses.
"Supporting the UNI-Dome project goes beyond the football team or the track team," Deb and Dan said. "It provides support for the university, for the Cedar Valley and for high school students across the entire state."
The UNI-Dome renovation project is a part of UNI's Our Tomorrow campaign. Phase one of the renovation continued this month as the process to replace the center portion of the UNI-Dome roof commenced.
Donations to the UNI-Dome project are tax-deductible through the UNI Foundation and can be made outright or as a multi-year pledge.
For more information and to view the renderings, visit the UNI-Dome renovation website, unidomerenovation.com. Additional questions about the UNI-Dome renovation can be sent to Jamar Thompson, associate athletic director for external affairs, at 319-273-7817 or jamar.thompson@uni.edu.
