EIU Board Names Volleyball Court at McAfee

The Eastern Illinois University Board of Trustees has officially named the Gardella Family Volleyball Court at McAfee Gymnasium

McAfee once served as the University's primary athletic facility until 1967, when Lantz Gymnasium first became operational. With support from a donation from Eastern Illinois alumnus Joe Gardella of the Class of '89 and the Gardella family, EIU's volleyball facility will be housed exclusively in the South Gym of McAfee, lending the volleyball team a distinct home court advantage and a notable connection to EIU's past in the historic university building.

The Board also voted to reaffirm the University's mission and vision following EIU's reaffirmation of accredited status by the Higher Learning Commission through the 2034-35 academic year. The reaccreditation decision followed a comprehensive evaluation by HLC's Institutional Actions Council. The Board also voted to extend the personnel contract of current EIU President Jay Gatrell from July 2025 through June 2029. Athletics Director Tom Michael also provided the Board with annual updates about EIU's Athletics programs and student-athlete achievements. Faculty, staff and student senate representatives also shared regular reports and updates.