NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) — Christopher Newport University recently scored a $1 million pledge from TowneBank.

The gift reaffirms TowneBank’s long-standing partnership with the University and ensures naming rights for TowneBank Stadium.

Off the field, it will provide academic scholarships and support arts at the school. A portion of the funds will be used to enhance CNU’s Ferguson Center for the Arts.

“This is a game-changing gift from TowneBank that will energize our athletic programs and enrich the experience of every student on campus,” said CNU President William G. Kelly. “We are proud to continue our strong partnership with TowneBank, whose ongoing support inspires our student-athletes on and off the field, allows us to attract top talent, and enriches the cultural life of our campus through the arts.”

The announcement was celebrated with a ceremony before kickoff of the Family Weekend football game Saturday.