Atlanta, August 11, 2025
News Summary
Georgia State University is on the hunt for a naming partner for its new GSU Convocation Center, a 200,000 square-foot multipurpose venue in Atlanta. Opened in 2022, the center serves as a home for GSU’s basketball teams and hosts various university and community events. This naming opportunity aims to enhance visibility and community engagement, aligning with the university’s impact on the local economy.
Exploring Naming Opportunities at Georgia State University’s Convocation Center
Atlanta is buzzing with excitement as Georgia State University (GSU) takes an innovative step forward by searching for a naming partner for its brand-new GSU Convocation Center. Opened in 2022, this magnificent venue spans an impressive 200,000 square feet and has quickly established itself as a multipurpose facility in downtown Atlanta. It serves as the proud home for GSU’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, while also hosting a variety of university events, academic ceremonies, concerts, and community engagements.
The CONVOCATION CENTER is not just a sports venue; it’s a vital part of the local Summerhill neighborhood. Charlie Cobb, the Director of Athletics at Georgia State, highlighted how this center is a strategic asset that symbolizes the university’s commitment to visibility and investment in the heart of Atlanta.
A Growing Impact in Metro Atlanta
Speaking of investment, Georgia State’s impact on the Atlanta metro area is nothing short of astonishing. The university contributes approximately $3.2 billion annually to the local economy. With over 52,000 students, GSU stands as the largest in-person university in Georgia. Each year, it confers degrees to more than 10,000 students, making it a critical institution for education and workforce development in the region. The university also connects with five additional Perimeter campuses, located in Clarkston, Decatur, Dunwoody, Newton, and Alpharetta, widening its reach and influence.
A Promising Partnership Ahead
This search for a naming partner represents an exciting opportunity for both Georgia State and the selected corporate partner. L. Jared Abramson, the executive vice president and chief operating officer, mentioned that this endeavor aims to strengthen the university’s brand alongside a partner that shares its vision for community engagement and economic impact. Enlisting Van Wagner, a leader in college athletics marketing, this initiative is set in motion to attract potential partners looking to make a meaningful connection with GSU.
Van Wagner is already familiar with GSU Athletics, having successfully managed multimedia rights and secured naming rights for Center Parc Credit Union Stadium. Mike Palisi, the president of Van Wagner College, expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with Georgia State on this new venture, believing it will deepen ties to the community.
A Hub of Activity
The GSU Convocation Center isn’t just architecturally stunning; it has hosted nationally televised basketball games and significant university events, reaffirming its role as a community hub. The center’s reputation stands strong, with GSU receiving accolades from U.S. News and World Report as the No. 1 public institution for undergraduate teaching for five consecutive years, and ranking among the top 5 most innovative institutions for the past decade.
Visibility and Impact
Partnering as a naming rights sponsor will grant the chosen brand substantial visibility across collegiate athletics and university platforms. This is an excellent opportunity for any organization looking to align itself with a thriving institution committed to making a difference in Atlanta and beyond.
For those interested in this unique naming rights opportunity, more information is available by reaching out to Georgia State Athletics or Van Wagner. Engaging in this partnership is more than a branding strategy; it’s a commitment to building community and embracing economic development in the bustling city of Atlanta.
FAQ Section
What is the GSU Convocation Center?
The GSU Convocation Center is a state-of-the-art multipurpose venue located in downtown Atlanta, serving as home for the Georgia State University basketball teams and hosting various university events.
When did the Convocation Center open?
The Convocation Center officially opened its doors in 2022.
How can companies get involved as a naming partner?
Organizations interested in becoming a naming rights partner can reach out to Georgia State Athletics or Van Wagner for the detailed proposal and opportunities.
What is the economic impact of Georgia State University?
Georgia State University has an approximate economic impact of $3.2 billion annually on the metro Atlanta area.
What distinguishes Georgia State University?
Georgia State is recognized as the No. 1 public institution for undergraduate teaching and one of the top innovative institutions in the country.
Key Features of the GSU Convocation Center
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 200,000 square feet |
| Opened | 2022 |
| Primary Use | Home for GSU men’s and women’s basketball, university events, and community activities |
| Eeconomic Impact | $3.2 billion annually in metro Atlanta |
| Student Body | Over 52,000 students |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Atlanta Celebrates Milestone Achievement in Education and Sports
New Baseball Stadium Coming to Downtown Atlanta
Additional Resources
- Georgia State University’s Convocation Center Naming Rights Opportunity
- Georgia Southern and East Georgia State College Consolidation Approvals
- Career Readiness at Georgia State University
- Wraparound Support Networks for College Students
- Best Practices in Higher Education
- Wikipedia: Georgia State University
- Google Search: Georgia State University
- Google Scholar: Georgia State University Economic Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgia State University
- Google News: Georgia State University
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
