The David J. and Debra C. Rathje Athletic Center, slated to open in the summer of 2025, is the latest physical transformation on Millikin University’s campus. The project was funded by generous lead gifts from David ’58 and Debra Rathje, Jim Perryman ’83 and the Perryman family.
The facility will serve as the on-campus centerpiece of Millikin Athletics, providing much-needed physical support to student-athletes participating in the University’s 22 different sports. Nearly 40% of the student body at Millikin identifies as student-athletes, representing the Big Blue either currently or in prior seasons. The Center will serve as a central hub for these athletes, providing dedicated space that fosters development and nurtures camaraderie. The new building also provides the University with greater opportunities to host College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) or National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) championships in future years.
The $12.3 million, 17,655-square-foot Rathje Athletic Center project will include the following:
- A weight room named in honor of former Big Blue Football Coach Carl Poelker ’68 and Jim Perryman '83, a former NFL player.
- Locker rooms to accommodate Football, as well as Men’s and Women’s Track & Field.
- A training room, conference room and team meeting room for multipurpose use.
- Retired NFL jerseys, Football and Track & Field team recognition area.
- Offices for Football and Men’s and Women’s Soccer.
