Poarch Creek Indians Make Major Gift to Saban Center, Launch Statewide STEM & Arts Initiative
Donation is among the Center’s largest to date
The Saban Center has announced a major new partnership with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians to support STEM and arts education programs for children throughout Alabama.
The donation—among the Center’s largest to date—reflects a shared mission to "honor the past while building a strong and innovative future for the next generation.”
“Nick and I are immensely grateful to the Poarch Creek Indians for the generous support of Saban Center,” said Terry Saban. “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, added, “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 Tribe has long championed education—from early childhood programs to support for secondary education—as a key to stronger communities in Alabama. This latest collaboration amplifies that legacy by broadening access to transformative learning across the State.
Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox welcomed the news, 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 donation, saying, “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.”
The Saban Center is set to open in 2027, and is envisioned as an interactive hub combining the Alabama STEM Hub, Tuscaloosa Children’s Theatre, and IGNITE (formerly the Children’s Hands‑On Museum). The Center will foster hands‑on learning, creativity and leadership for students and educators across the region.
Over the years, the Tribe has invested millions in Alabama schools, colleges, and educational programs, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Their support includes funding for early childhood development, scholarships for Native and non-Native students, and partnerships with school districts to improve classroom technology and teacher training. In 2022 alone, the Tribe contributed over $5 million to education-focused initiatives across the state, reinforcing their belief that investing in young people today creates stronger, more resilient communities tomorrow.
