Norm DeBryin Athletics Operations Facility and Murphy USA Student-Athlete Academic Success Center

The Norm DeBriyn Athletics Operations and Murphy USA Student-Athlete Academic Success Center stands as the cornerstone of academic, athletic, and personal development for Southern Arkansas University’s more than 450 student-athletes. This 9,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility serves as the central hub for all 16 Mulerider Athletics programs, providing a comprehensive range of resources to support student-athletes in the classroom, in competition, and in life.

Purposefully designed to foster success, the center includes multiple collaborative and individual learning spaces such as a large classroom that also functions as a team meeting room, a computer lab, private tutoring rooms, and quiet study areas. It also houses offices for academic advisors, coaches, and athletics administration to ensure direct and daily engagement with student-athletes. A modern nutrition center and locker rooms for the men’s and women’s Track and Field/Cross Country teams round out the facility’s offerings.

The facility represents a long-standing tradition of support from the Willard and Pat Walker Foundation, which has generously contributed over $2.5 million to SAU since 2005. That total includes a leadership gift of $1.2 million to this project, reinforcing the Foundation’s enduring commitment to Mulerider Athletics and SAU’s broader mission.

Additionally, Murphy USA made a lead commitment of $750,000, playing a pivotal role in the creation of this transformative facility. Their investment directly supports the academic and athletic success of SAU student-athletes and reflects a shared commitment to excellence and opportunity.

The Norm DeBriyn Athletic Operations and Murphy USA Student-Athlete Academic Success Center is more than a building—it’s a bold investment in the future of Mulerider student-athletes, empowering them to thrive in every aspect of their collegiate experience.