Matching Gift Helps Launch Huston Renovation

In February, Lewis & Clark’s Board of Trustees approved a $4.5 million capital project for improvements to the Huston Sports Complex. So far, the college has raised $500,000, with a goal of raising $1.5 million before construction starts in spring 2023. To help reach that goal, trustee Jim Spencer BA ’85 will match new gifts and pledges dollar-for-dollar up to $500,000.

Among the Huston improvements will be replacing the existing grass and dirt infield with allweather artificial turf and installing permanent restroom facilities. In addition to allowing the softball and baseball teams to practice and play games in Oregon’s rainy environment more consistently, the turfed fields are also being designed to allow for additional practice space for Lewis & Clark’s two newest varsity sports: women’s lacrosse and men’s soccer. The resurfaced baseball field will be renamed in honor of longtime Lewis & Clark baseball coach Jerry Gatto.

Additional improvements to the complex will be completed at a future time based on both donor support and future capital improvement budgets.