St. Mary’s signs on as healthcare sponsor of The Classic Center and Akins Ford Arena

Athens, Ga. – St. Mary’s Health Care System and The Classic Center Authority have reached a multi-year agreement designating St. Mary’s as the official health care provider of Akins Ford Arena and The Classic Center.

“At St. Mary’s, we believe that health and well-being extend beyond hospital walls,” said Stonish Pierce, President and CEO of Trinity Health Georgia, which includes St. Mary’s. “Our partnership with Akins Ford Arena and The Classic Center reflects our deep commitment to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where families and individuals of all abilities can thrive.”

The partnership will be visible in multiple ways, from naming the Infant Care and Sensory rooms to recognition for events such as the Broadway Entertainment Series and Athens On Ice public outdoor ice skating each winter.

“St. Mary’s sponsorship of the arena’s sensory room, the infant care rooms in both facilities, and major events throughout the year demonstrates an outstanding commitment to the comfort, well-being, and inclusivity of our guests and community,” said Paul Cramer, President/CEO of The Classic Center Authority. “This partnership will allow us to strengthen the experience for visitors of all ages and abilities, reflecting our shared dedication to exceptional hospitality. We are deeply grateful to Stonish Pierce and the entire St. Mary’s team for their partnership in making this meaningful addition a reality.”

“Part of our mission is to enhance the quality of life in Athens-Clarke County by serving as the cultural, civic, and social center for the Southeast,” said Tim DeMott, Vice President of Operations and General Manager of Akins Ford Arena. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to the wellbeing of our community and to providing exceptional hospitality to our guests. Together, we’re expanding access to inclusive offerings and continuing to elevate the experience for everyone who visits our venues.”

Pierce added, “This collaboration is more than a sponsorship; it’s a shared vision for a healthier, more connected community. The enhancements our sponsorship creates are a natural extension of our mission to provide compassionate care and elevate quality of life throughout our region. We’re proud to stand alongside The Classic Center Authority in making these venues more accessible and enriching for everyone who walks through their doors.”

Supporting the sensory and infant care rooms was important to St. Mary’s Foundation, noted Foundation President Seth Waltman. “Expanding the reach of St. Mary’s healing mission beyond the hospital walls is a key function of St. Mary’s Foundation,” Waltman said. “Our Foundation Board of Directors is very excited to be able to support this opportunity with Akins Ford Arena and The Classic Center.”

About The Classic Center:

Located in Athens, Georgia, The Classic Center is a premier multi-use conference center, performing arts theatre, and covered outdoor pavilion. We host a wide range of events, including conventions, conferences, meetings, weddings, concerts, sporting tournaments, and special events.  Our newly opened Akins Ford Arena further enhances our ability to bolster the economic, entertainment, and cultural well-being of Athens, offering expanded event capabilities and accommodating over 8,000 attendees.

About Akins Ford Arena:

Located in Athens, Georgia, Akins Ford Arena enhances the economic, entertainment, and cultural well-being of Athens by providing an exceptional venue for both local and visiting guests. We host a wide range of events, including conventions, concerts, family shows, and sports tournaments, accommodating over 8,000 fans. Part of The Classic Center Authority, Akins Ford Arena is driven by entertainment and is dedicated to providing top-tier entertainment and an unparalleled experience for all.

About St. Mary’s Health Care System

St. Mary’s Health Care System, a member of Trinity Health, is a three-hospital, nonprofit, faith-based health ministry whose mission is to be a compassionate and transforming healing presence in the communities we serve. St. Mary's is a certified chest pain center and a gold-plus hospital for stroke care and has a special focus on neurosciences, cardiac care, general medicine/general surgery, orthopedics, primary care, robotic surgery, and women’s and children’s health.