Construction is officially underway for the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation Wellness Center at Williams Baptist University in Walnut Ridge. The university held a groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday, joined by its Board of Trustees, to mark the start of the $7 million facility.
WBU President Dr. Stan Norman expressed excitement about the new development, highlighting the center's anticipated impact. “The J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation Wellness Center marks a major step forward for WBU, its students, and the entire campus community,” he said. Dr. Norman added that the facility will enhance fitness and recreation opportunities on campus while also giving students and faculty a welcoming place to gather.
The 26,000-square-foot structure will feature a range of amenities, including two basketball courts, weight and fitness equipment, an electronic gaming area, a student lounge, and a screened-in porch. Ramsons Construction of Jonesboro has been contracted to complete the project.
The facility is being funded in part by a $4 million grant from the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation, awarded in 2023. Dr. Norman said that additional contributions from other supporters enabled the university to move forward with the project.
The Board of Trustees, which was holding its regular session on Tuesday, passed a resolution affirming prayer as a university priority and adopted a statement prioritizing prayer at WBU as part of its agenda. The meeting also included recognition of four trustees completing their terms: Clint Emfinger of Searcy, Dr. Shane Knight of Alexander, Dr. Heather Moore of Cabot, and Dr. Ben Rainwater of Little Rock. Dr. Norman thanked them for their service.
WBU’s trustees are appointed to three-year terms by the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. The university’s mission centers on both academic achievement and its Christian faith-based values.