Governor Kay Ivey, along with famous Alabama Crimson Tide football coaches Nick and Terry Saban, along with local officials and sponsors, took part in a groundbreaking ceremony for the Saban Center on Wednesday morning.
The event expanded into community celebrations at the Tuscaloosa River Market, co-hosted by the city and the Saban Center.
Speakers at the ceremony, including Governor Ivey, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox, Terry Saban, Saban Center Director Audrey Buck, and Porch Creek Indian Tribal Chair and CEO Stephanie A. Bryan, emphasized the project’s significance and its potential impact on Alabama’s children and families.
“As an educator, I truly feel that investing in children is akin to investing in the future,” said Terry Saban. “The Saban Center has been a dream of mine for many years, and seeing it come to fruition is a source of pride. The Tuscaloosa community and Alabama hold a special place for our family, and I look forward to creating a space for our kids to learn and grow.”
“From the beginning, my administration has prioritized ensuring every child in Alabama has the necessary tools for success,” Gov. Kay Ivey remarked. “Being part of the Saban family as we invest in the next generation of leaders in Alabama is something we take pride in.”
The Saban Center, expected to be completed by 2027, will stand as an innovative educational campus merging STEM with the arts. It aims to foster hands-on learning and innovation, joining forces with partners like the Tuscaloosa Children’s Theatre and the Museum of Discovery (formerly known as the Children’s Practice Museum), in addition to collaborating with public and private educational entities statewide. The center is designed to be a hub for teacher training, student enrichment, arts engagement, and workforce development.
“Success rarely comes from isolation. Today reflects the efforts of many people coming together for a brighter future for our kids and communities,” said Mayor Walt Maddox. “The Saban Center marks the beginning of our educational initiatives. It will host immersive programs that demonstrate our commitment to the next generation. It’s an honor to collaborate with the Saban family, Alabama, and all community partners who have made this project a reality.”
Located in the Tuscaloosa River district, the Saban Center is near landmarks such as the Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater, Parker Horn Park, and downtown Tuscaloosa.
“Today’s celebration is not just an event; it signifies our dedication to shaping Tuscaloosa’s future,” stated Audrey Buck, the center’s director. “By bringing the Saban Center to life, we encourage children to dream big and nurture their curiosity.”
During the ceremony, the Porch Creek Indians announced a $5 million contribution to the project, strengthening the partnership introduced earlier this week.
“The Saban Center will create enduring opportunities for young Alabamians and their families,” said Stephanie A. Bryan, chair and CEO of Porch Creek Indians. “Its mission aligns perfectly with our tribe’s values and aspirations for the future, and we feel privileged to support this visionary project financially.”
This donation is among the largest contributions to the Saban Center to date.
“Nick and I are extremely grateful for this generous support from the Porch Creek Indians,” Terry Saban said. “Their dedication to creating a bright future for our children is truly admirable.”
The Saban Center is envisioned as a launching pad for those eager to enhance their lives through engaging, interactive learning.
Offering dynamic experiences for students and educators alike, the campus is set to encourage curiosity, confidence, and leadership skills. Beyond hosting the Alabama STEM Hub, Ignite, and the Tuscaloosa Children’s Theatre, the center aspires to blend arts, education, discovery, and innovation to prepare Alabama’s future workforce.
