Oklahoma City U receives $13M lead gift for Kirkpatrick Fine Arts Center’s centenary renovations

Oklahoma City University has received $13 million from the Kirkpatrick family to help renovate the historic Kirkpatrick Fine Arts Center. The combined award from the Kirkpatrick Family Fund, Kirkpatrick Foundation, Christian Keesee Charitable Trust, and Kirkpatrick Partners Fund at Oklahoma City Community Foundation will serve as a lead gift to launch a $25 million campaign in support of  the arts center, first opened in 1929 and renamed for the Kirkpatrick family in the 1960s. The project, scheduled for completion in 2028, will modernize the performing arts venue with upgraded acoustics, stage systems, backstage facilities, and audience amenities while preserving its historic character. The award will also back a $2 million endowed maintenance fund. The initiative will strengthen performing arts education and expand production capabilities at the venue, regarded as a cornerstone of  the Oklahoma City region’s art and culture landscape.