Gerdin Fieldhouse for Athletics and Wellness

Projected Cost: $24 million

Progress: $18.3 million committed (as of 10/6/2025)

At Luther College, students are at the heart of all we do. Our campus is their home—a place where learning extends far beyond the classroom, where we strengthen not only our minds, but also our bodies and well-being.

The Gerdin Fieldhouse for Athletics and Wellness will carry that spirit forward. Modernized, versatile spaces will energize our sports and recreation programs, enhance the student experience, and reflect the same excellence that defines a Luther education.

I want to support the Gerdin Fieldhouse Project

Our Vision

The Gerdin Fieldhouse for Athletics and Wellness will be a vibrant hub for competition, recreation, and community—reflecting Luther’s commitment to the holistic well-being of every student.

This renovation will:

• Modernize athletic facilities to match the quality of our conference and Division III peers, ensuring that Luther remains a top choice for student-athletes and recruits and reflects the legacy of Luther’s athletic tradition
• Create welcoming gathering spaces where students can meet, study, and connect—strengthening the sense of community that defines life in the Valley
• Revitalize recreation and wellness areas  to support the physical and mental health of all students and the extended Decorah community

Make A Gift and make it happen

In Their Words: What This Building Means to Our Coaches

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An update on the new Wrestling facility with Coach Dave Mitchell

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An update on the new Gym/Arena with Coach Amanda Bailey

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A update on the Gerdin Fieldhouse Entrance with Coach Jane Hildebrand '74

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An update on the locker rooms with Coach Joe Troche

A Transformational Gift

In November 2023, Luther announced a $10 million commitment—the largest individual gift in our history—from Mike ‘92 and Nicole Gerdin and the Gerdin Charitable Foundation. 

Their extraordinary generosity launched this ambitious renovation and made possible the naming of the Gerdin Fieldhouse for Athletics and wellness. 

Read the story

A Community Stepping up

An artist’s rendering of the Decorah-area tailgate plaza

The Decorah-area Norse community is rallying behind the Fieldhouse renovation, demonstrating their investment in the athletes, coaches, and families who bring this campus to life. Local volunteers are reaching out to friends and neighbors to help meet a special matching challenge to support this project and to build the Decorah Community Tailgate Plaza – a special community gathering place, and a gift from the Decorah community to our Luther student-athletes.

Every gift, no matter the size, helps unlock support and moves us closer to transforming this space for generations to come.

Join the Decorah-area matching challenge today

Follow the Progress

The renovation is underway, and excitement is building. Follow key milestones and updates as we bring this vision to life:

• August 2025: Meet Athletics Director Megan Wilson
• May 2025: President Brad Chamberlain’s Vision for Norse Athletics
• August 2024 Update: Breaking the Ceremonial Wall and Start of Renovation
• June 2024 Update: Renovation Set and Wrestling Addition
• November 2023 Update: $10 million Gift Received from Michael and Nicole Gerdin

watch VIDEO UPDATES

Making a Gift

Now is our moment to accelerate this project and complete the transformation of the Gerdin Fieldhouse. Every gift—large or small—brings us closer to opening doors that strengthen the health, pride, and community of Luther College. 

Gifts and pledges of all sizes are appreciated. Multiyear pledges may be fulfilled over three years. 

Make a gift

For more information or to discuss your giving options, please contact the Advancement Office at 563-387-1861 or email advancement@luther.edu.