ATLANTA – Kennesaw State University and Fifth Third Bancorp (Nasdaq: FITB) have announced the extension of their sponsorship agreement through June 30, 2030, with an additional three-year option to renew. Fifth Third’s increased investment in the partnership could approach $15 million. Fifth Third’s extended partnership investment includes providing $5 million of its total investment towards KSU Athletics’ Capital Campaign.
The partnership with the KSU Athletic Association continues naming rights to the university’s stadium and designation as the Official Bank of Kennesaw State Athletics. As part of Fifth Third Bank’s evolving brand, Fifth Third Bank Stadium will be renamed Fifth Third Stadium and facility signage and branding changes are to follow in the coming months. Fans may notice a more contemporary look and feel which is indicative of the overall direction Fifth Third is headed.
Fifth Third entered the initial agreement with KSU Athletic Association in 2013, which included substantial support for improvements to Fifth Third Stadium and financial support of other athletics programs and facilities. It has served as the home for KSU football, women’s soccer, and lacrosse, as well as a variety of family-friendly events.
“We are excited to continue our partnership with Kennesaw State University Athletics,” said Randy Koporc, regional president for Fifth Third Bank (Georgia). “This increased sponsorship signifies Fifth Third’s commitment to the university, the state of Georgia and the southeast as we work to expand in the marketplace, deepen community relationships and play an active role in the university’s capital campaign.”
“The relationships we have with our community partners are what makes Kennesaw State a stronger university,” said KSU President Kathy Schwaig. “We are grateful to Fifth Third Bank for their continued support and investment in the vitality of our student community and the experience of our student-athletes.”
Fifth Third Stadium has provided a distinct home-field advantage for the Owls. KSU football has earned the honor as the best startup program in college football history and three Big South Conference trophies thanks to its current 42-8 home record. Since 2013, KSU women’s soccer is 47-30-13 inside Fifth Third Stadium and has played for multiple ASUN titles.
The success has supported KSU’s invitation and upcoming membership into Conference USA, where the Owls will join the FBS July 1, 2024. The future visibility and excitement for all members of the partnership will grow exponentially with FBS competition and a nationwide television package.
“I believe when you build your community, you build your bank,” said Koporc. “It comes as no surprise that KSU Athletics program is transitioning to Conference USA. This a result of strong partnership, strategic planning, hard work and determination by the coaches, athletes and leadership.”
Kennesaw State Director of Athletics Milton Overton sees the agreement as a powerful, transformative partnership that will help execute the strategic vision for the future of KSU Athletics. A valued partner since the formation of Kennesaw State University’s football program, Fifth Third’s leadership support has played an instrumental role in its growth.
“I want to personally thank Fifth Third Bank and Randy Koporc for having the foresight to become a founding strategic corporate partner that helped launch our football program, and for their continued, steadfast commitment to further deepen our relationship for years to come,” said Overton.
The Kennesaw and Cobb County community have gathered in record numbers during the partnership. A crowd of over 10,000 set the attendance record for KSU’s season-opener on Thursday, August 31, 2023.
Fifth Third Stadium has served as the host facility for notable events such as: Atlanta United, Atlanta United 2, CONCACAF Champions League Soccer, USA Rugby Sevens Collegiate National Championships, Atlanta Blaze, Major League Lacrosse National Championship, World Cup Rugby qualifying, the Shaky Boots Music Festival, Owl-O-Ween, concerts, and more.
Fifth Third Bank is committed to making the fan experience at Fifth Third Stadium a Fifth Third Better®. Currently, Kennesaw fans can use Fifth Third Bank mobile charging stations throughout the stadium, partake in Fifth Third interactive games on the videoboard and in-person, and benefit from perks for Fifth Third cardholders such as concession and fan gear discounts.
About Fifth Third
Fifth Third is a bank that’s as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, we’ve been helping individuals, families, businesses and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives. Our list of firsts is extensive, and it’s one that continues to expand as we explore the intersection of tech-driven innovation, dedicated people and focused community impact. Fifth Third is one of the few U.S.-based banks to have been named among Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies® for several years. With a commitment to taking care of our customers, employees, communities and shareholders, our goal is not only to be the nation’s highest performing regional bank, but to be the bank people most value and trust.
Fifth Third Bank, National Association is a federally chartered institution. Fifth Third Bancorp is the indirect parent company of Fifth Third Bank, and its common stock is traded on the NASDAQ® Global Select Market under the symbol “FITB.” Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com. Member FDIC.
About Kennesaw State University
A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 45,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.
