HU Dedicates Thwaits Athletic Center
Thwaits Athletic Center named in honor of Ryan (’04) and Amy Thwaits
HUNTINGTON, Ind. — Huntington University celebrated the naming of the Thwaits Athletic Center with a dedication ceremony on Thursday. The Thwaits Athletic Center, encompassing the new entrance, community center, and fitness center of the Merillat Complex, is named in honor of Ryan and Amy Thwaits.
Ryan graduated from Huntington College in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in entrepreneurial/small business management. He embarked on a successful career in the RV industry and as an entrepreneur. He is a co-founder/co-owner and currently serves as an executive of Brinkley RV. The $2,000,000 lead gift toward this facility was generously donated by Ryan and Amy shortly after USDA approval for the facility. Their gift allowed Huntington University to quickly move forward with the project.
Upon making the gift, Ryan noted that it is his sincere hope and prayer that the students using the facility will use it to strengthen their mind, body and spirit.
“People who came before me invested in Huntington so that I could have a fantastic college experience and athletic opportunities,” Ryan said at the time of making the gift. “Now it’s my turn to do the same for the next generation of Foresters. I want them to have success at the highest level, and this is my way of making that happen.”
Ryan was inducted into the Huntington University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2016 for his significant contributions to the HU men’s basketball program during the years of 2000-2004. Ryan’s success on the hardwood carried over to the classroom, where he was a two-time NAIA Scholar Athlete.
Along with his significant financial support, Ryan has served HU in other ways. In 2020, he served on the search committee that brought Kory Alford to the University as the men’s basketball coach. He has been a resource for HU’s Business Department faculty and students. In 2023, he spoke at the Visiting Executive Seminar. He has been featured at donor events and shared his story, not for personal recognition, but to benefit Huntington University. Ryan has passionately supported the mission of the University and has made strong commitments to ensure the future of HU students through his generosity.
Ryan has been a significant supporter of Huntington University prior to this gift. He has consistently given to the men’s basketball program and supported two projects at Forest Glen Park. Not only has Ryan financially supported athletic programs, but he has also been an ambassador with alumni and encouraged others to stay engaged.
“The Business Department is exceedingly proud of Ryan,” said Dr. Ann McPherren, professor of business and economics and assistant to the president for program development. “Ryan is a life-long learner, and as a student was always engaged in figuring out ways to apply his education in practical ways. His curiosity, confidence and competitive drive have fueled his success as an entrepreneur and business owner. As proud as we are of his business achievements, Ryan’s commitment to the Lord, his family, his community and his generous stewardship are the real measures of his success.”
Ryan has a great love and respect for family, friends, the church and Huntington University. His care and support for others is evident in all he does. Through these qualities, Ryan brings Huntington University’s mission to life, and his generosity advances the University’s mission forward.
“As someone who was an impact player while wearing a Forester uniform, Ryan was a leader who made a difference in every aspect of the game,” said Athletic Director Lori Culler. “We are deeply grateful that his impact continues to be felt in athletics. His lead gift to this project not only enabled us to create a state-of-the-art facility but also inspires our community to dream bigger and aim higher. Naming it the Thwaits Athletic Center is a fitting tribute to his extraordinary generosity. We thank him for giving back so meaningfully — it’s an honor to have his name tied to a space that will inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps.”
