Cottey College opens The Sophia Gymnasium

Nevada, MO—Cottey College is pleased to announce the opening of The Sophia Gymnasium on campus. The gymnasium space is located in Hinkhouse Center, formerly the site of the swimming pool. The space features a full-sized gym floor that can host basketball or volleyball contests and a removable backdrop for archery practice and competitions. The facility is named after Sophia Zetmeir, who donated the lead gift for the $850,000 project.

“We greatly appreciate Sophia and her support of our students,” said President Dr. Stefanie Niles. “Cottey has continued to see growth in the number of student-athletes on campus, and this new facility will provide another beautiful space for practice and competition and will enhance our student-athlete experience. Additionally, the campus community can utilize the area for gatherings, student organization activities, and other programming.”

Most of Cottey’s athletic teams will use this additional space and it will double the indoor practice and competition area currently available. The funds for this project were all privately donated.

“I am deeply honored and proud to be part of this wonderful addition to Cottey,” said Sophia Zetmeir. “It’s exciting to know that this beautiful new space will greatly benefit our students and athletes, providing even more opportunities for young women to participate in sports and enjoy all the benefits they offer.”

The other groups and individuals who donated to the project were Susan Smith ’62, friends of the college John & Connie Nielsen, Lyn Houston, and an anonymous P.E.O. chapter.