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Pioneer Football Kicks Off At ODAC As New Complex Nears Completion

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Chad Jenkins
photo of MNU football field under construction

Pioneer football fans, the 2025 season is almost here, and we can’t wait to cheer on our team! While our highly anticipated new home, the Copeland Athletic Complex, nears completion, games will initially be played at the Olathe District Activities Center (ODAC).

“Construction progress on the new stadium has been steady,” said Vice President of University Advancement & Athletics, Todd Garrett. “But an unexpected issue with the turf installation, combined with recent weather delays, pushed back the final completion timeline. Unfortunately, at least the first two games (August 28 and September 6) will have to be played off campus. We’re committed to ensuring the facility is fully ready to provide the best possible experience for the players, coaches, and fans before opening day.”

We will continue to share updates as the project moves forward. For the latest information on game locations and the official opening of the Copeland Athletic Complex, please visit mnusports.com.

The opening of the Copeland Athletic Complex will be a historic day for MNU Athletics, and we can’t wait to welcome fans into this state-of-the-art facility.

MNU thanks you for your patience and support, and we encourage fans to fill the stands at ODAC and show their Pioneer pride from the very first snap!

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Dr. Abby Hodges

Vice President for Academic Affairs

PhD; Organic Chemistry, Yale University 
MS; Organic Chemistry, Yale University 
BS; Chemistry, Denison University

Dr. Hodges began her career in higher education at Azusa Pacific University as a chemistry professor from 2008 to 2014. She then moved to MNU where she taught and in 2018 was appointed Chair of the Department of Natural, Health, and Mathematical Sciences. From 2022-2023, before accepting the Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Hodges was the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

Dr. Hodges’ career research has focused on protein folding and protein engineering, and she has mentored over twenty students in these research projects. She has also furthered the MNU first-year experience program and chaired the General Education committee for five years. Dr. Hodges was recognized as the MNU Faculty of the Year in 2021.

Dr. Hodges lives in Olathe with her husband Ryan and two boys.