While Ole Miss had previously announced ambitious renovation plans for Vaught-Hemingway Stadium as part of their “CHAMPIONS. NOW.” capital campaign, those plans have been adjusted due to the evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly concerning NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) and potential revenue sharing models.
Here’s what we know about the changed plans and what is currently coming to Vaught-Hemingway:
* Pause on Major Overhaul: According to Ole Miss Athletic Director Keith Carter, the university has put the “bigger items” regarding stadium renovations on hold. The uncertainty surrounding the financial implications of NIL and revenue sharing has led to this pause. Carter stated that they need to “figure out where this college athletics landscape is going to land” before committing to large-scale stadium improvements.
* Focus on Other Areas: While major stadium renovations are on hold, the “CHAMPIONS. NOW.” campaign is still moving forward with other significant projects, including the extensive overhaul of the Olivia and Archie Manning Athletics Performance Center and the construction of a new softball stadium.
* Potential Future Focus: Carter acknowledged that Vaught-Hemingway Stadium is “starting to get pretty dated in certain areas” and that it is something they “have to start paying attention to.” He indicated that within the next 12 months (from April 2025), they will likely “dive back into the stadium” and have some ideas for improvements.
* Founders Suites Project Moving Forward: Despite the pause on major renovations, a specific project, the addition of Founders Suites on the west side of the stadium, above the current press box, appears to be moving forward.
* These will be 10 exclusive suites, each with 24 seats (16 outdoor, 8 indoor).
* The suites come with a hefty price tag of $5 million, requiring a $2.5 million upfront payment, with the remaining balance due before the 2027 season.
* Annual suite contributions are set at $130,000.
* The project will involve a single-story addition to the west side structure, adding over 18,000 square feet for the suites, bathrooms, and support spaces.
* Construction will also include three new stair towers, two new elevators, and upgrades to the existing three elevators.
* No demolition of the existing west grandstand will be necessary.
In summary, the grand vision for a major facelift of Vaught-Hemingway Stadium is currently on hold as Ole Miss navigates the changing financial realities of college athletics. However, the construction of the high-end Founders Suites is proceeding, offering a premium experience for select fans in the near future. The athletic department will likely revisit broader stadium renovation plans once the financial landscape becomes clearer.
