Southeastern Oklahoma State University unveiled the plans for its new football stadium – Spend Life Wisely Stadium – in a ceremony on campus Wednesday, March 12.
The new stadium structure will be located on the west side of Paul Laird Field, the long-time home of Savages and Savage Storm football, as well as Durant High School football and soccer.
The transformational gift to instigate stadium construction was a joint gift from First United Bank and the Massey Family Foundation as part of the University’s annual Giving Day on March 6. This landmark contribution will fund significant renovations at Paul Laird Field, enhancing the student-athlete experience and benefiting both Southeastern students and the greater Durant community.
“Our purpose at First United is to inspire and empower others to Spend Life Wisely, and this investment will do just that,” said Greg Massey, CEO of First United Bank. “We believe in supporting the future leaders, families, and businesses that make our communities strong. Southeastern students are an essential part of that future, and we are proud to invest in them.”
“This is more than just an investment in athletics,” said Southeastern President Dr. Thomas W. Newsom. “This is an investment in our students, our community, and the future of Southeastern Oklahoma State University. We are incredibly grateful for the continued generosity and vision of the Massey Family Foundation and First United Bank.”
ABOUT SPEND LIFE WISELY STADIUM
Upon construction completion, the stadium will be named Spend Life Wisely Stadium, reflecting First United Bank’s purpose and commitment to the Durant community.
The generous gift supports a series of upgrades to the student-athlete and fan experience on gameday, including:
Other stadium enhancements to be completed prior to the 2025 football season include a new turf playing surface and wrought iron surround fencing.
Construction on Spend Life Wisely Stadium is currently scheduled to begin following the 2026 football season, providing sufficient lead time for procurement of materials for the facility. The first season played in Spend Life Wisely Stadium is slated to be in the fall of 2027.
HONORING THE LEGACY OF JOHN MASSEY
A key highlight of the renovation is the John Massey Press Box, which pays tribute to the late John Massey – a Southeastern alumnus, visionary entrepreneur, and lifelong advocate for education and economic development.
Massey, the first in his family to attend college, was a respected student leader at Southeastern before embarking on a distinguished career in public service and banking. As a longtime member of the State Regents for Higher Education, he championed initiatives which expanded opportunities for students across Oklahoma. His leadership transformed First United Bank into one of the region’s premier financial institutions, now serving communities across Oklahoma and Texas.
Through the years, Massey remained deeply committed to Southeastern, providing generous support which helped establish the John Massey School of Business. His contributions have strengthened the university’s academic excellence, allowing the AACSB-accredited program to continue shaping future business leaders.
COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY
The Massey Family Foundation and First United Bank have long supported Southeastern students and the Durant community, reinforcing their commitment to education, leadership, and long-term community growth.
Beyond athletics, the foundation continues to invest in academic success through scholarships, including the John Massey Leadership Scholars Program, which prepares students for lives of leadership, service, and purpose. Additionally, their support for the Massey Textbook Reserve Program ensures students have free access to essential textbooks, reducing financial barriers and promoting educational success.
“Durant is the backbone of First United Bank,” Massey added, “and we remain dedicated to its future. Our customers, employees, and community are the foundation of our company, and we are excited to give back in a way that will impact generations to come.”
The impact of this gift extends beyond Southeastern, as Durant Schools also utilize the facilities for football and soccer programs, further demonstrating the commitment to both the university and local youth.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
This historic gift embodies First United Bank’s core values, centered on the four pillars of financial well-being, faith, health, and personal growth – principles which will now be reflected in Spend Life Wisely Stadium.
“Southeastern is a pillar of education and opportunity,” said President Newsom. “This transformational gift will leave a lasting impact on our students, athletes, and the entire Southeastern community. The Massey Family Foundation and First United Bank’s generosity will shape the future of Southeastern and Durant for generations to come.”
About Southeastern
Founded in 1909, Southeastern Oklahoma State University provides an environment of academic excellence that enables students to reach their highest potential. By having personal access to excellent teaching, challenging academic programs, and extracurricular experiences, students will develop skills and habits that promote values for career preparation, responsible citizenship, and lifelong learning. Our over 6,000 students include 50% first-generation students and 28% students of Native American descent, with 82% receiving financial aid. Southeastern ranks amongst the most affordable schools in the region thanks to out-of-state tuition waivers and is proud of its exceptional affordable accredited MBA program, stellar aerospace and teacher education programs, and outstanding national ranking in graduating Native American students.
About First United Bank
Established in 1900, First United is a leading financial organization with over 95 bank, mortgage, and insurance locations across Oklahoma and Texas. As one of the largest privately held community banking organizations in the United States, First United is a robust and well-capitalized force in the Southwest, with assets exceeding $16 billion. First United provides a full range of financial services, including banking, mortgage, insurance, and investment products and services, and is dedicated to inspiring and empowering others to Spend Life Wisely®. Member FDIC.
About the Massey Family Foundation
The Massey Family Foundation is committed to empowering communities and driving positive change through strategic philanthropy. By leveraging our resources and collaborating with like-minded partners, we aim to create lasting social impact, improve lives, and build stronger, more resilient communities.
