Penn State approves naming-rights deal
TribLive
TribLive
After receiving a $50 million gift to assist in a stadium renovation project, the Penn State Board of Trustees on Monday approved the naming of the field at Beaver Stadium as West Shore Home Field at Beaver Stadium.
The gift from Werzyn family and West Shore Home will help fund the $700 million stadium renovation that should be completed prior to the 2027 season.
“West Shore is proud to be founded and based in Pennsylvania and this partnership with Penn State is an exciting opportunity for our company,” said B.J. Werzyn, founder and chief executive officer of West Shore Home, LLC. “West Shore Home sets the standard for excellence in home remodeling and Penn State sets the standard for excellence in academics and athletics. It’s a great relationship.”
The agreement, approved by a 22-8 vote, will run through the 2039 season.
“We are incredibly grateful to B.J., P.J. and West Shore Home for this game-changing gift as their commitment to Penn State Athletics and the institution will have a lasting impact on our student-athletes, fans and community,” said Patrick Kraft, vice president for intercollegiate athletics. “As an alumnus of our great University and a business owner in Central Pennsylvania, B.J. understands the critical role that Beaver Stadium plays in our community, as well as the importance of preserving the great traditions of Penn State while helping us build a strong future.”
West Shore Home also has partnered with Penn State’s College of Information Sciences and Technology and the Nittany AI Alliance to provide students with opportunities to expand their studies in their chosen field through internships with West Shore Home.
“This gift from the Werzyn family and West Shore Home is a testament to their incredible generosity and unwavering commitment to Penn State,” said Neeli Bendapudi, Penn State president. “The Werzyn family and West Shore Home embody the spirit of our Penn State community — fueling success on the field, in the classroom and beyond.”
According to a news release, work is ongoing on the east and west sides of the stadium, including preparation for the construction of the PAM Health Misitano Family Tower, suite levels, expanded concourses and elevator/stair towers on the perimeter. In addition, 7,900 temporary bleacher seats will be installed on top of the suite level, along with temporary concession and restroom amenities for the season. On the East side, expansion of the main concourse is under way as well as critical maintenance projects to repair some of the aging elements of the stadium.
