(Community First Broadcasting Staff Photo)Orange City, Iowa (Sioux County Radio) — Northwestern College marked a historic milestone Friday with a groundbreaking ceremony for the modernization of Korver Field and a ribbon-cutting for the new Colenbrander Plaza.
A Transformational Renovation
The $10.9 million project is a comprehensive, multi-phase renovation and expansion of the college’s existing stadium. Northwestern College President Greg Christy said strong community support and several major gifts helped the college raise $10.6 million quickly enough to begin construction a year ahead of schedule.
Major gifts came from Mary DeWitt and family, the late Frank Vogel, Iowa State Bank, and the den Hartog family.
The venue will carry the name of legendary football coach Larry (Bob) Korver, who coached at Northwestern for 28 seasons. President Christy shares Korver’s impact on the college.
Christy lays out the extensive scope of the renovations designed to elevate fan experience.
Additional upgrades include a new video board, a sports medicine center in the remodeled halftime facility, and a covered premium seating area known as the Raiders Zone. Construction has already begun, with the facility expected to be ready for competition by next September.
Honoring History at Colenbrander Plaza
The new Colenbrander Plaza honors Rev. Henry Colenbrander, longtime pastor of Orange City’s First Reformed Church, which founded Northwestern College. Colenbrander also served as chairman of the college’s board for 35 years, guiding the institution through challenges including the Great Depression and World War II.
The plaza was funded entirely through a legacy gift from the late Ray Hiemstra, son of former Northwestern President Jacob Hiemstra.
President Christy reflects on the connection.
Community and Municipal Impact
Orange City Administrator Matt Van Schouwen says the stadium serves not only Northwestern College but also local schools and the broader community.
MOC-Floyd Valley and Unity Christian both use the facility for football games and other activities.
The Orange City Council is expected to review potential municipal support for the project at a future meeting.
