Linfield College stadium named in honor of businessman Del Smith

Nov. 15, 2011 - PRLog -- McMINNVILLE, Ore.

Smith, founder and owner of Evergreen International Aviation, Inc., served on the Linfield board from 1975 to 2009. He has supported the small college with numerous gifts and has provided hundreds of Linfield students with business internships and post-graduation jobs at Evergreen Aviation, Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, and Wings & Waves Waterpark.

“Del Smith’s support of Linfield students, both athletically and academically, has changed the lives of countless young people,” said Linfield President Thomas L. Hellie. “It is fitting that we recognize his support by naming our softball stadium in his honor. His gifts have been instrumental in the development of our softball program, which has been in the national spotlight in recent years.”

Linfield College has long been known as a powerhouse in football and baseball. The softball team has now become nationally known, winning two national titles in the past five years. Upgrades to the softball facilities in recent years, made possible by Smith’s generosity, have enhanced the success of the program. The stadium now features a 400-seat grandstand, enclosed press box, upgraded scoreboard and two covered and partially enclosed batting cages. Linfield is recognized as having some of the finest athletic facilities of any Division III college in the Pacific Northwest.

Smith was inducted into Linfield’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2005 for meritorious service to the athletics program. He has provided financial gifts for the construction of the Rutschman Field House, renovation of Helser Field and upgrades to the football and track fields, and has offered lodging, transportation and meals for the baseball program.

Smith’s support for Linfield College has also extended far beyond athletics and includes contributions to the Nicholson Library, Linfield Business Department, Edith Green Endowed Lecture Fund and the President’s Discretionary Fund.

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Linfield illuminates the power of a small college, and is recognized for arts, sciences and professional programs, international emphasis and commitment to social responsibility.