JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – An outpouring of supporters, donors, business leaders, athletics, and community members gathered to celebrate the Charlotte & Gordon Hansen Stadium Friday afternoon.

More than 280 donors led to the completion of the $11.7 million project in less than two years. University of Jamestown President Dr. Polly Peterson highlighted the history of the stadium, adding that today, it now stands as one of the best facilities in the Midwest.

She said the project was not without it’s own challenges.

Dr. Peterson added that without the community support, along with the donors and alumni who helped to fund the project, this facility would not be possible. She said it was community that current and future Jamestown Public School and University of Jamestown athletes should be thankful for.

Jamestown Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Rob Lech says conversations predating himself and Dr. Peterson have helped get both entities to this point.

Dr. Lech added that the new stadium and Erstad Field were both examples of things that can be accomplished between the University of Jamestown and Jamestown Public School District.

Brett Moser, VP of Development at the University of Jamestown, spent time recognizing the major donors who contributed to the facility’s construction.

Moser added that the Board of Trustees voted to move forward with the project in February of 2020 on what they determined wasn’t just a want, but a need.

Dr. Jo-Ida C. Hansen was the lead donor for the project.

She added that the completion of this project was exactly something her late mother and father would have liked to see.

A ribbon cutting for both the Charlotte & Gordon Hansen Stadium and Erstad Practice Field were held following the dedication ceremony.

Watch the full Charlotte & Gordon Hansen Stadium Celebration below: