Endowment, Press Release

Atmore, Ala – The Saban Center, a cutting-edge educational campus that integrates STEM and the arts, is proud to announce a significant partnership with the Poarch Creek Indians (PCI) to enhance and promote STEM and arts education across Alabama.

This strategic collaboration with PCI includes one of the Saban Center’s largest donations to date and reflects a shared commitment to honoring the past while building a strong and innovative future for the next generation. This partnership will support and enhance the Saban Center’s mission to inspire discovery, learning and creativity for children and families throughout the state.

Terry Saban shared her appreciation, saying, “Nick and I are immensely grateful to the Poarch Creek Indians for the generous support of Saban Center. This partnership is a true example of what’s possible when we come together in supporting education for our children.”

Stephanie A. Bryan, Tribal Chair of the Poarch Creek Indians, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “We are proud to join with Terry and Nick Saban in providing STEM and arts education to children in Alabama through the Saban Center. This collaboration represents our shared commitment to making sure our state’s young people have the opportunity to reach their full potential and are well prepared to meet the demands of the future. It is truly a legacy project that the Sabans and our Tribe are committed to its success for generations to come.”

The Poarch Creek Indians has long prioritized education as a foundation for building stronger communities across Alabama. From early childhood programs to investments in secondary education, the Tribe has supported opportunities that empower youth and promote long-term growth. This partnership between the Tribe and the Saban Center continues that legacy for Poarch Creek by expanding access to transformative learning experiences for children statewide.

Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox also celebrated the announcement, saying, “This new partnership with the Poarch Creek Indians will help us succeed in delivering a world-class experience to the next generation. Together, we’re laying the foundation for a stronger, brighter future for our children.”

Audrey Buck, Director of the Saban Center, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “I am incredibly excited about this partnership with the Poarch Creek Indians. By joining forces, we are creating new opportunities and expanding what’s possible for every child who walks through our doors.”

Saban Center Breaks Ground in Tuscaloosa

The Saban Center officially broke ground on August 6, marking a major milestone in the development of an innovative STEM and arts education hub. Tribal Chair Stephanie A. Bryan joined leaders including Miss Terry Saban and Mayor Walt Maddox to celebrate the occasion. As a proud partner, the Poarch Creek Indians continue to invest in transformative educational initiatives across the state. Slated to open in 2027, the Center will serve as a statewide resource for hands-on learning, community engagement, and educator support.