VWU Hosts Dedication Ceremony for Eric Nyman Performance Golf Center
Trustee and Alumnus Eric Nyman encourages students to pay it forward
University News | February 23, 2024
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VWU hosted a dedication ceremony for its new golf center in the Jane P. Batten Student Center on February 22. Trustee and Alumnus Eric C. Nyman ’94 was on hand to cut the ribbon, officially opening the new facility. Through a generous donation from Nyman, VWU Men's and Women's Golf has a new team room and two high-performance golf simulation bays equipped with state-of-the art technology from , a global leader in the development of golf performance and game enhancement solutions. Nyman, is CEO of Vista Outdoor Inc., known for its 41 renowned sporting and outdoor lifestyle brands, including Foresight Sports.
President Scott D. Miller opened the ceremony with welcoming remarks. “We come together to honor one of our own, Eric Nyman, a distinguished member of the Class of 1994 and a valued member of our Board of Trustees,” said President Miller. “Eric’s commitment to his alma mater and his passion for supporting our students and athletes shines brightly through this remarkable gift.”
Surrounded by members of VWU’s Men's and Women's Golf Teams, Nyman then addressed the attendees gathered just outside the golf center for the event. He remembered, with great fondness, his years at Virginia Wesleyan, sharing his admiration for his alma mater.
“I had the chance to be a student-athlete. I played basketball here and it really changed my life,” noted Nyman. “I hope it has the same impact on all of you,” he said with a nod to the students-athletes.
Nyman shared that he could recall thinking, when he left Virginia Wesleyan, that if he ever had the chance to give back to the school in a meaningful way, he was going to do it.
“I’m so thrilled to be able to help student-athletes achieve your dreams, because that’s what it’s all about. You know, what you really want to do is help people achieve the best versions of themselves. And, I hope when you leave here, you all feel that same spirit —and give that same spirit and pay it forward.”
Nyman officially cut the ribbon, along with President Miller, Executive Director for Intercollegiate Athletics Andrea Hoover, VWU Golf Coach Tom Hall, fellow alumnus and golf center donor Joe Harris ’94, and members of the VWU Board of Trustees: Nancy DeFord, Gary Bonnewell, and John Malbon. After Nyman’s ceremonial “first tee” in the center, the ceremony concluded with a reception.