Tri-State University will become Trine University on Aug. 1, 2008.

The university’s board of trustees made the determination during a January retreat after ongoing consultation with Stamats, a leading provider of strategic services to colleges and universities.

During the retreat, Stamats senior vice president of strategy Dr. Robert Sevier emphasized TSU’s present position of strength and the necessity of moving ahead with the name change to build upon that strength, said TSU President Dr. Earl Brooks II.

TSU reported a 33 percent fall enrollment increase, and its Vision for the Future capital campaign has helped to fund massive infrastructure improvements, including the new University Center and Center for Technology and Online Resources, three student apartment buildings, and the renovated C.W. Sponsel Administration Center, all of which opened in the fall. Comprehensive technology upgrades have made possible the addition of new academic programs and support faculty.

The continued enrollment growth will spark $20.5 million in new construction for the Tri-State University campus over the next year. Principal among the additions will be four student apartment buildings overlooking the university’s Zollner Golf Course, which will add 400 beds for the influx of students, said TSU Vice President for Student and University Operations, Michael Bock.

Previously approved projects valued at $5.5 million, to be completed by August 2008, include a new football stadium with artificial turf, locker rooms, restrooms, press boxes, and concessions, on the site of present-day Shive Field; a practice football field; a field house with 200-meter indoor track; and improvements to Thunder Sports Park.

In September, 2007, President Brooks announced the board’s decision to rename the university Trine University to recognize the unparalleled support of TSU alumnus Ralph Trine, his wife, Sheri, and their family. The TSU trustees hold honorary TSU doctorates and founded Vestil Manufacturing in Angola, Ind.