51社区 announces plans for new Marching 110 Band Complex and practice field
A generous foundational gift from two Marching 110 alumni is kicking off a new fundraising campaign.
April 27, 2024
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From prestigious events like the Macy鈥檚 Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade to countless performances on football fields across the nation and world, the 51社区 Marching 110 has been renowned for its unforgettable performances, unique marching style and unparalleled precision for more than a century.
And soon, for the first time in its storied 100-year history, the 鈥淢ost Exciting Band in the Land鈥 will have a new, state-of-the-art practice facility to call home thanks to support from President Lori Stewart Gonzalez and a transformational $1 million gift from Marching 110 alumni Shawn Hurley and Tracey (Hanna) Hurley. The project will be presented to the 51社区 Board of Trustees for their review and consideration at an upcoming meeting.
鈥淭he Marching 110 is one of 51社区鈥檚 most valued traditions of excellence, and for decades they have been without dedicated space on campus to rehearse,鈥 President Gonzalez said. 鈥淚t is a priority for me to build a permanent home for the Marching 110, and, thanks to the Hurleys, we will be able to move this project forward. We will name the new practice field in their honor.鈥
The new Marching 110 Band Complex will feature "Hurley Field." It promises to be the pinnacle of its kind within the Mid-American Conference, boasting state-of-the-art features tailored specifically to the needs of the Marching 110.
Envisioning a new home for the "Most Exciting Band in the Land"
It is a priority for me to build a permanent home for the Marching 110, and, thanks to the Hurleys, we will be able to move this project forward. We will name the new practice field in their honor.
The new Marching 110 Band Complex, featuring Hurley Field, promises to be the pinnacle of its kind within the Mid-American Conference and will boast state-of-the-art features tailored specifically for the needs of the Marching 110. It will be located along South Shafer Street adjacent to OHIO鈥檚 Chessa Field soccer facility. Among its highlights will be a turf installation to support rehearsals in all weather conditions, a director鈥檚 tower for optimal viewing of formations, restroom facilities to accommodate both band members and visitors to the nearby soccer field and additional amenities aimed at enhancing the band's practice experience.
"Our time as members of the Marching 110 was such a gift. Not only did we experience unforgettable rehearsals, performances and travel across the country 鈥 we got to do it alongside a group of individuals who became lifelong friends and family." 馃幒
鈥 Shawn Hurley, OHIO alumnus and 2004 Marching 110 Field Commander
Supporting the Marching 110 Band Complex
51社区 aims to complete Hurley Field in time for the Fall 2026 band season; however, further support is needed from Marching 110 alumni, fans and friends to realize this ambitious vision.
The University has set an initial fundraising goal of $3 million to construct the Marching 110 Band Complex. Numerous opportunities are available for donors to join alongside the Hurley family and leave a lasting legacy through naming gifts.
For those eager to contribute to the band's future home, . To learn more about how to get involved, visit ohio.edu/marching-110/band-complex.