Cedar City, Utah — Southern Utah University (SUU) and State Bank of Southern Utah (SBSU) announce a major long-term sponsorship, reinforcing a legacy of cooperation and a shared vision for the success of SUU and its students.

The new agreement formalizes a 15-year investment designed to enhance campus and community experiences, strengthen university programs, and expand engagement opportunities across the region.

As part of the agreement, SUU’s event center will be renamed State Bank Arena, with the transition taking effect in 2027. In addition to the future naming rights, the sponsorship includes construction of a new external digital sign located directly in front of the arena, enhancing SUU’s ability to promote athletic, academic, and community events.

“We are incredibly excited about this collaboration with State Bank of Southern Utah, which reflects our shared values and commitment to the Southern Utah community,” said SUU President Mindy Benson.

Decades of teamwork between SUU and SBSU will continue to expand through this agreement, which secures the future of several high-profile programs. SBSU will maintain its role as presenting sponsor for the Utah Summer Games Opening Ceremony, title sponsor for the State Bank Business Challenge, and a platinum sponsor for the One Utah Summit.

“As a graduate of Southern Utah University, this partnership is especially meaningful to me,” said CEO and President of State Bank of Southern Utah Trevor Andersen. “This truly is a win-win for our community. State Bank has long benefited from SUU graduates who now serve as our customers and employees across Southern Utah – in fact, more than 50% of our employees are SUU graduates. Through this agreement, we are proud to continue giving back in the region we all call home.”

The collaboration will also reintroduce the Jr. Thunderbirds program for the next generation of T-Birds. With support from Funaki Asisi, General Manager of SUU Athletic Sponsorships through Van Wagner Sports & Entertainment, this youth program will encourage local kids to participate in recreation and engage with SUU athletic events, building meaningful relationships between the university and local families early on.

The event center will continue as the America First Event Center until 2027 honoring a legacy of dedicated sponsorship and support that America First Credit Union has provided to SUU students and the campus community.

“America First is grateful for our partnership with SUU and the deep roots it has helped us build in Southern Utah,” said CEO/President Thayne Shaffer. “It has been an honor to support SUU’s student-athletes and the athletics staff, and we look forward to the future as we continue to cheer on the Thunderbirds.”

About State Bank of Southern Utah

Founded in 1957, State Bank of Southern Utah is a locally owned community bank committed to personalized service and local decision-making. With 17 branch locations throughout Central and Southern Utah, SBSU proudly supports individuals, families, and businesses by investing in the communities it serves. Learn more at sbsu.com.

About Southern Utah University

Southern Utah University is a caring campus community where students realize their potential through personalized mentorship from people dedicated to helping them soar. Offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, SUU provides hands-on, career-focused learning to prepare students for the future. Located in the world’s best backyard, SUU’s safe and vibrant campus offers a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels supported and inspired by both the natural beauty and a strong sense of community. Whether on campus or online, SUU provides an education that is competitively priced and highly valued, giving students the skills and confidence to thrive in any professional setting. This is where students soar.