Longtime supporters’ giving to the University totals nearly $3.2 million; ribbon cutting set for fall 2027
by Bethel University
McKENZIE, Tenn. (Oct. 29, 2026) — Bethel University today announced that the field at Walter Butler Stadium will be named Patty & Thomas Kahlden Field in honor of longtime supporters Patty and Thomas Kahlden, whose giving to the University totals nearly $3.2 million, including a recent $1 million pledge.
The University will honor the Kahldens with a short ceremony at halftime of Saturday’s Senior Day game against Campbellsville University, which kicks off at 1:30 p.m. at Walter Butler Stadium. A formal ribbon cutting will follow next fall.
The naming extends a lasting Kahlden presence on campus. Bethel previously named its baseball and softball fields the Kahlden Complex in the couple’s honor.
The Kahldens’ most recent commitment, announced here for the first time, is a $1 million unrestricted pledge. It will support the University’s annual operational and strategic needs, from student services and faculty development to academic programs and facility improvements such as the new field at Walter Butler Stadium.
“Patty and Tom have stood beside Bethel University for many years, and their generosity reaches nearly every corner of this campus,” said Dr. Perry Moulds, president of Bethel University. “Every student-athlete who takes this field and every fan who fills these stands will see their name and know what faithful giving makes possible. We are thankful for the Kahldens, and their legacy and investment in Bethel will be felt by our students for generations to come.”
“At Bethel, we believe faith, education and athletics all play important roles in developing young people of character and purpose,” said Dr. Jody Hill, vice president of advancement. “The Kahldens share that belief, and their generosity has strengthened our ability to advance that mission. We are deeply grateful for their friendship and extraordinary commitment to this University.”
“We are so excited for the Bethel Wildcats to have a beautiful and safe playing field for its football and soccer teams. We hope and pray that there will be many injury-free games ahead,” said Patty Kahlden. “Bethel gives young people a place to grow in their faith, their education and their character. Tom and I are proud to be part of that work, and we look forward to cheering on the Wildcats on this field for years to come.”
A Home Field Built for Wildcats
Crews completed the field in July, giving the Wildcats a new home for this season and many more. It is the centerpiece of Walter Butler Stadium and a major upgrade for every student-athlete who trains and competes there.
The new turf, made in the United States by Sprinturf, gives players a fast, even surface that stays that way season after season. Its blades are thicker and tougher than typical artificial grass, so the field holds up to daily practices without wearing thin. The rubber and sand beneath the blades stay in place instead of spraying up with every cut and tackle.
Rain drains straight through, so teams can get back on the field soon after a storm. The cushioned surface is also built to absorb impact and help protect players when they hit the ground.
The field covers about two acres and is marked for both football and soccer. It is unmistakably Bethel: purple end zones spell out “BETHEL” and “WILDCATS” in 16-foot white letters, the Wildcat logo sits at midfield, and purple and gold trim frames two-tone green stripes.
“Our players feel the difference every day,” said Derek J. Horne, vice president of athletics. “This field gives them a fast, safe and dependable place to practice and play, and it shows every recruit who visits how much Bethel invests in its student-athletes. We are proud to call it home.”
Bethel will hold a ribbon cutting for Patty & Thomas Kahlden Field in fall 2027, when the Kahlden name will be permanently added to the field.
About Bethel University
Founded in 1842, Bethel University has spent nearly 185 years helping students turn their talents into purpose. Located in McKenzie, Tennessee, within two hours of both Nashville and Memphis, Bethel is a Christian community of nearly 3,000 students from 33 states and 41 countries. The University’s mission is to equip individuals for a life of service through academic, spiritual, social and experiential learning to go forth and transform the world. With 52 undergraduate programs and nine graduate programs, Bethel aims to be a leader in student-centered education through innovative academics, character formation and life skills development. For more information, visit bethelu.edu.