Kingswood University students, staff, and donors gathered together to dedicate the newly-constructed Benson Athletic Complex, Friday, October 21. They were joined by Marc Thorne, Sussex, New Brunswick mayor, and Pete Benson, the complex’s primary benefactor and Kingswood alumnus, along with the Benson family. The complex has been named in honor of Pete and Ginnie Benson.
Dr. Steve Lennox, president of Kingswood, began the dedication ceremony with these words: “Students, this is for you.” He continued, “We dedicate this athletic complex to our students and the Sussex community, all for the glory of God.”
Kirk Sabine, vice president for campus life, thanked Jeff Fuller, voluntary design and project consultant, for the many hours he invested into the campaign. “You gave me the courage to start this project,” said Sabine.”
“If we believe in the God of the improbable, then we believe that this project could’ve happened,” said Pete Benson. “This is just the beginning of what these athletic fields can become. We also invite the Sussex community to be part of this.”
Mayor Mark Thorne highlighted how sports have always been a huge part of his life, how he grew up playing on these fields, and how he learned to hunt and fish along the Kennebecasis River. He said, “What Kingswood is stepping up to do means everything to me. I got quite emotional when I saw these constructed fields.”
Board Chairman Dr. H.C. Wilson read the litany of dedication, and Vice President for Development Allen Price led all in singing “The Doxology.” The ceremony concluded with Pete Benson cutting the ribbon while all looked on.
