JONESBORO, Ark. (1/11/24) – Arkansas State Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Jeff Purinton announced Thursday that First National Bank Arena's athletic training area is currently undergoing a complete renovation, including equipment upgrades, after the Red Wolves Foundation received a generous financial commitment from St. Bernards Medical Group.
 
In recognition of the major gift, the ASU System Board of Trustees voted last month to rename the area "St. Bernards Medical Group Training Room."  The A-State Athletics Department will hold a special recognition honoring St. Bernards Medical Group during halftime of its 2:30 p.m. men's basketball game Saturday, Jan. 13, against Louisiana.
 
"We are extremely grateful to have St. Bernards as a longtime outstanding partner," said Purinton.  "They not only provide amazing support for our programs and student-athletes, but also have a tremendous impact on our community.  We want to thank the St. Bernards Medical Group and their Board of Directors for making this project a reality.  The renovations and upgrades occurring within the St. Bernards Medical Group Training Room significantly enhance our athletic training care and opportunities for both current and future Red Wolves."
 
St. Bernards Medical Group was founded in 2000, using its collective resources to improve patient and community health far beyond the means available to any individual doctor or clinic.  The medical group provides exceptional value to the community in partnership with St. Bernards Healthcare – the most robust and advanced health system in the region.
 
"Community outreach is an important part of our mission at St. Bernards Medical Group," said Dr. Ben Owens, Jr., President of St. Bernards Medical Group.  "When members of our community succeed, it extends to our community as a whole.  For more than a decade, St. Bernards Healthcare has been the 'Official Healthcare Provider for A-State Athletics.'  Our medical group's providers are excited to now help A-State student-athletes have the training environments they need for success."