Dort Financial Credit Union ($2.3 billion, Grand Blanc, Mich.) expanded into Florida last year with its purchase of the $513 million Flagler Bank in West Palm Beach. After the deal was finalized on Dec. 14, 2023, the newly-purchased institution was renamed Flagler Credit Union, a Division of Dort Financial.

As part of the agreement, FAU Stadium in Boca Raton, Fla., home of FAU’s Owls football team, will be renamed Flagler Credit Union Stadium. Flagler will also become the official credit union of Florida Atlantic Athletics and the Florida Atlantic Alumni in 2025. The 15-year deal officially begins on Wednesday, Dec. 18, when the stadium will host the 2024 Boca Raton Bowl.

A celebration of the announcement for invited guests and members of the media was scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Genesis Club at the new Flagler Credit Union Stadium.

“We are thrilled and honored to formalize an incredible partnership with Flagler Credit Union,” FAU Vice President and Director of Athletics Brian White said. “It not only speaks to the remarkable momentum of FAU, but to the leadership at Flagler Credit Union. They have deep ties to our area and have been a trusted community partner for nearly 25 years. We welcome FCU, its employees and its members to the Owl family and look forward to the affiliation for many years to come.”

Flagler Credit Union said in addition to football stadium naming rights, the relationship includes an extensive multimedia arrangement with Florida Atlantic Athletics for all varsity programs, in addition to participation in FAU student and alumni engagement opportunities, as well as marketing activations with Florida Atlantic’s Career Center and the university’s Business Mentoring program.

“We are thrilled to partner with Florida Atlantic University on the naming rights for Flagler Credit Union Stadium. The partnership underscores our commitment to supporting our community,” Brian Waldron, president/CEO of both Dort Financial and Flagler Credit Union, said. “This stadium is more than just a venue – it’s a place where memories are made, where athletes, alumni and fans come together to celebrate teamwork, dedication and excellence. We are honored to partner with a university that shares our values of supporting community and enriching lives.”

The credit union noted that while the stadium will bear its name, the playing field will remain designated as Howard Schnellenberger Field. The late Schnellenberger founded FAU’s football program and served as its inaugural head coach from 2001-2011.