MANHATTAN, KAN. – Kansas State University recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new animal science event center.

The facility, which will be named the Bilbrey Family Event Center, will showcase livestock performance competitions, judging shows and large events for youth agricultural organizations, prospective students, companies and the public. The area will also include an indoor arena that will become the Tee Jay Quarter Horses Walker Family Arena.

The project is part of $220 million in improvements in agriculture infrastructure around the campus.

“Our exceptional animal science programs are producing sound solutions and elite talent to address our world’s pressing food challenges, but all the knowledge in the world won’t make much of a difference if we don’t have a way to showcase and share this,” said Greg Williams, KSU Foundation president and chief executive officer.

When completed, Williams said the event center plans to host up to 30 events per year. The project is expected to be completed by August 2025.

During 2023, K-State began construction of an Agronomy Research and Innovation Center.