New England College Celebrates Opening of Scourby Athletics Center

New England College (NEC) officially began a new chapter for NEC Athletics on September 25 with the ribbon cutting of the newly renovated and newly named Scourby Athletics Center, a facility that includes a gymnasium, offices, training rooms and fitness center. Lex Scourby, class of 1975 and chair of the New England College Board of Trustees, has been a longtime supporter of the College. The Scourby Athletics Center honors his leadership and generosity.

Held on campus during the College’s annual Fall Festival weekend, the ceremony brought together alumni, trustees, donors, students, faculty, staff and friends of New England College to celebrate the completion of the project and recognize the many individuals whose generosity and leadership helped make the Athletics Center possible.

Lex Scourby (front row, second from right) stands with NEC alumni and President Dr. Wayne F. Lesperance, Jr. at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Scourby Athletics Center at New England College in Henniker, N.H.

“This is an exciting moment for New England College and for the future of NEC Athletics,” said Dr. Wayne F. Lesperance, Jr., President of New England College. “The Scourby Athletics Center represents our commitment to providing our students with the facilities, resources and opportunities they need to thrive.”

The Athletics Center arrives at a pivotal time of growth for NEC Athletics. In recent years, the College has expanded opportunities for student-athletes and welcomed football back to Henniker after 50 years. The new facility provides a dedicated space to support that continued growth and gives students a place they can be proud to call their own.

“The Athletics Center is much more than a place to practice, train and compete,” said Dave DeCew, Director of Athletics. “It is a place where all our students, athletes and non-athletes alike, can build relationships, develop as leaders and create memories that will stay with them long after they leave NEC.”

In addition to Scourby, the ceremony recognized Peter and Diana Merriam, members of the class of 1978. Their generosity made possible the creation of the Merriam Fitness Center. Their support reflects a continued commitment to New England College and to the health and well-being of the entire NEC community.

The ceremony concluded with Scourby officially cutting the ribbon, marking the opening of the Athletics Center. Attendees were invited to tour the facility and explore the new and renovated spaces that will serve the NEC community for years to come.