Samford University's Brock School of Business welcomed students, faculty, donors, advisory board members, industry leaders and friends of the program on Oct. 2 to celebrate the dedication of the new Sports Industry Program student space and the expansion of the Andrews-White-Cooney Center for Sports Analytics.
The event marked a significant milestone for a program that has grown from a bold vision into one of the nation's leading faith-based sports business programs. Guests gathered for fellowship, networking and tours of the new facilities before a dedication ceremony recognizing the people whose investment and support have helped shape the program's growth.
Located on the third floor of Cooney Hall, the new Sports Industry Program student space was created to give students a place to gather, collaborate and build relationships with classmates, faculty and industry professionals. The space complements the recently expanded Andrews-White-Cooney Center for Sports Analytics, which has enhanced opportunities for students to engage in hands-on projects and connect with leaders across the sports industry.
Brad Lail, dean of Brock School of Business, opened the ceremony by reflecting on the purpose behind both spaces and the impact they will have on future generations of students.
"At Brock School of Business, the most valuable learning often happens when classroom knowledge intersects with real-world experience," Lail said. "The goal goes beyond preparing students for their first job. The goal is to prepare them for lives of leadership, service and impact."
Throughout the afternoon, speakers celebrated the relationships, generosity and shared vision that have helped the Sports Industry Program flourish since its founding in 2009.
President Beck A. Taylor noted that the program's success reflects Samford's commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers while challenging them to make a difference in the lives of others.
"What began as a bold idea has grown into a nationally respected program that opens doors for students while developing leaders of character and purpose," Taylor said.
The ceremony also recognized the Andrews, White and Cooney families, whose support has played a central role in expanding opportunities for students through enhanced facilities, technology and industry engagement.
For Darin White, founder and executive director of the Sports Industry Program, the day's celebration was ultimately about the students who will benefit from the spaces for years to come.
"The Sports Industry Program has never simply been about helping students get jobs in sports," White said. "Sports is the platform. Business is the platform. Leadership is theplatform. The real mission has always been helping students discover how God can use their talents, passions and abilities to serve others and make a meaningful difference in the world."
The event concluded with a dedication prayer and tours of the new facilities, giving attendees an opportunity to experience firsthand the spaces that will support learning, mentorship and community for future Sports Industry Program students.
As guests gathered throughout the afternoon, the dedication served as both a celebration of the program's growth and a reflection of its enduring mission: equipping students to lead with excellence, integrity and purpose in the sports industry and beyond.
