Carleton’s athletic stadium, formerly known as Keith Harris Stadium, has been renamed MNP Park.
The five-year naming rights agreement was arranged with MNP LLP, a large consulting and accounting firm in Canada.
“MNP is relatively new to Ottawa and we wanted to get involved in the community in a supportive way,” said Randy Mowat, senior vice-president of marketing for MNP, in a statement.
“Our sponsorship of the athletic stadium will ensure programs remain strong at Carleton,” he said.
Details of the agreement were not disclosed, but the sponsorship will support the football team long-term. Previously, the Ravens football team was funded primarily through alumni support.
“This is a positive partnership – one that capitalizes on Carleton’s visibility in the community and provides an important investment in the success of Carleton University athletics,” said Jennifer Brenning, Carleton’s athletic director, in a statement. “MNP’s support will help us ensure stability for our football program and a great experience for all of our student-athletes, fans and alumni.”
Despite renaming the stadium, Carleton will continue to recognize Keith Harris. The stadium was named in the former Athletic Director’s honour in 1998. Harris was director for 35 years. Highlights of his distinguished career include broadening sports programs and supervising construction of various athletic facilities on campus.
The Ravens football team will play their home opener on MNP park against Waterloo on Sept. 6.
