Dwight and Sandy Sandlin Commit One Million Dollars to Bartow Arena Renovation Project

BIRMINGHAM - The UAB Department of Athletics has announced that Dwight and Sandy Sandlin have committed one million dollars in support of the Bartow Arena renovation project.

"I'm a proud UAB graduate and feel like I owe UAB so much for the professional success I've had in my life," Dwight Sandlin said. "My wife Sandy and I wanted to do something that we felt could help support the enrollment growth of the institution, because it's so important to our community. UAB is the largest single-site employer in the state of Alabama, and we need it to continue to thrive. Bartow Arena is a place where so many people gather for athletic and non-athletic events. We want it to look as new and modern as the rest of our campus and hope our gift inspires others to do the same."

Dwight co-founded Signature Homes where he is the Company Chair and got his degree from UAB in 1976. Dwight has served on numerous boards during his career, including the Birmingham Homebuilder's Association as a past president and Federal Reserve Advisory Board. He is currently a member of the Jefferson County EIDB, and is a proud UAB Athletics Foundation Board of Director. Sandy is the head of Sales and Marketing for Signature Homes. Dwight and his wife Sandy call Birmingham home where they have served the Birmingham Community in the real estate industry for most of their lives.

"We are so grateful to the Sandlin family for their generous gift," said Director of Athletics Mark Ingram. "Dwight and Sandy share our vision of making Bartow Arena one of the nicest venues in the country, and their gift will help turn that vision into reality. Their commitment to the institution and the City of Birmingham continue to enhance UAB's footprint both locally and nationally."

●      Entrance lobby expansion
●      Club-level lounge and club-level seating for enhanced viewing experience
●      Replacement of some lower bowl seating with new seating to elevate fan experience
●      Concourse improvements including lighting and updated restrooms

Pending UAB Athletics reaching fundraising goals and additional UA System Board of Trustee approvals, the project is anticipated to break ground following the completion of UAB's Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies.

Additional information about the Bartow Arena renovation project and ways to support will be made available throughout the upcoming year.

For more information, or to pledge your support of the Bartow Arena project, call the Blazer Boosters office at 205-996-9969.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics

Dwight and Sandy Sandlin Commit One Million Dollars to Bartow Arena Renovation Project

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