On Thursday, November 13, we will officially break ground for the Kovalchick Convention and Athletic Complex. I invite you to join us for what is sure to be a truly historic occasion.

This event starts at 10:00 a.m. with a groundbreaking celebration on the construction site along Wayne Avenue, adjacent to the university. A reception will follow. Through the combined efforts of Indiana University of Pennsylvania and federal, state, county, and local officials and organizations, the complex is becoming a reality. November 13 will truly be an extraordinary day for the Indiana and IUP communities.

When completed in the spring of 2011, the $41-million Kovalchick Convention and Athletic Complex will comprise 150,000 square feet on six and one-half acres along Wayne Avenue, adjacent to the university. The complex will include an arena/convention facility that will accommodate large events, including Commencement; sporting events; concerts and other cultural gatherings; conferences; and trade shows. An estimated 111,000 patrons are expected to attend more than 120 events at the complex each year. Nearly 5,000 of these patrons are projected to be high-impact/overnight visitors.

I hope that you will be able to join us on November 13.

Tony Atwater