The University of New Hampshire Athletics and Northeast Delta Dental have entered a 10‑year partnership that will reshape the Delta Dental Lobby inside the Whittemore Center, turning it into a vibrant hub for fans and the broader university community.
A new era of fan engagement
Renovations, slated for completion before the 2027‑28 season, will introduce interactive digital touchscreens, a dedicated jersey display and refreshed branding elements that celebrate the Wildcats' heritage while inviting visitors to explore the arena’s history.
The agreement also births an annual UNH Athletics Homecoming 5K, a road race that will coincide with Homecoming Weekend, drawing students, alumni, supporters and local residents into a shared celebration of health and school spirit.
Demi Kneeland, General Manager of Learfield’s UNH Athletics Sports Properties, said the collaboration reflects a strategic move to deepen community ties and enrich the game‑day experience.
Tom Raffio, president and CEO of Northeast Delta Dental, highlighted that the partnership aligns with the company’s long‑standing commitment to wellness, noting that the lobby’s upgrades will serve as a year‑round gathering place for fans of all ages.
Fumi Kimura, Deputy Athletic Director for External Operations, added that the transformed lobby will act as a focal point throughout the academic year, hosting events, exhibitions and community programs beyond athletics.
Together, the partners envision the space becoming a catalyst for ongoing engagement, blending sport, wellness and local pride into a single, dynamic environment.