East Texas A&M University marked a significant milestone on Tuesday, February 17, with a topping out ceremony for the new Rene’ Griffin Event Center. A topping out ceremony is a longstanding construction tradition that signals the completion of a building's structural framework and the transition into its next phase.

Representatives from Hoar Construction, who are building the facility, were joined by faculty, staff, students, donors and community members at the construction site to sign and celebrate the placement of the final steel beam atop the structure.

In his remarks, Dustin Moore, project executive at Hoar Construction, explained what a topping-out ceremony represents:

“This signals a major milestone in the construction process; it signifies that the steel erection is complete…and the next phase of construction begins. It also allows you to see the bones of the building that will forever transform the landscape of your campus.”

Alumnus Rene' Griffin was a VIP guest at the topping out event. On February 5, East Texas A&M announced a historic $8 million gift from Mr. Griffin, marking the largest single philanthropic contribution in the history of the university and to Lion Athletics.

Griffin addressed the crowd at the topping out ceremony, stating, “This whole gift is all about relationships and giving back. People gave to me; it's time to give back.”

He added: “I hope this gift can help out the students of today and students way into the future. Students who aren't even born yet will hopefully benefit from this. And if those folks get just a small percent of the benefit that I did, the university will have done its job…”

During the topping out ceremony, Rene' Griffin signed a ceremonial $8 million check in support of the project, underscoring his transformative investment in the university's future.

After the ceremonial check signing, the final steel beam was signed by Griffin and President Mark Rudin, along with members of the university's executive team, deans, coaches, Student Government Association President Estefania Olivas, student-athletes, Traditions Council representatives and other members of the Lion community. Each signee left a personal mark on a project that will shape campus life for generations.

About the Rene’ Griffin Event Center

Located on the south side of campus along State Highway 24 in Commerce, Texas, the multi-use Rene' Griffin Event Center will primarily serve as the home for East Texas A&M’s men’s and women’s basketball teams. Beyond athletics, the venue will host major university and community events, including graduations, concerts, conventions and special gatherings. Designed to anchor a future campus event district, the center will serve as a central hub for student life and community engagement in Northeast Texas.

The Rene' Griffin Event Center is expected to be completed in early 2027, with a grand opening anticipated shortly thereafter.

Browse the photo gallery from the topping out ceremony.