June 8, 2018
AUBURN, Ala. - Auburn University's Board of Trustees approved Friday naming the recruiting lounge at Jordan-Hare Stadium the Babs and Michael Anderson Tigers Den in recognition of a leadership gift from 1988 speech communications graduate Barbara "Babs" Thorne Anderson and her husband, Michael.
Located on the first floor of the new Harbert Family Recruiting Center in the stadium's southwest corner, the Babs and Michael Anderson Tigers Den is an upscale, 4,600-square-foot facility that serves as the gameday hospitality center for prospects and their families. The area also will provide recruits the opportunity to learn about the rich history and traditions that make Auburn special.
"Football was my favorite sport when I was an Auburn student," said Babs, who worked as a student recruiter for Coach Pat Dye. "I understand the importance of recruiting. I know if you get the best players and develop them, you've got a chance at a championship season. I want the prospective student-athletes, when they come to Auburn, to get a wonderful impression of our recruiting lounge."
Babs' service to her alma mater spans 30 years. A board member of the Tigers Unlimited Foundation, Babs also serves as a visionary member of the Auburn Women's Philanthropy Board.
Babs and Michael Anderson Tigers Den rendering
"Once again, loyal members of the Auburn Family have stepped up with a leadership gift. Babs and Michael's inspiring generosity epitomizes the giving spirit of Auburn people," Director of Athletics Allen Greene said. "Their vital support of the Tigers Den will pay dividends for generations, affirming Auburn's ability to compete for championships across the board."
According to head coach Gus Malzahn, the new Tigers Den facility will be an important part of bringing the best talent to Auburn. "This will be a first-class area and we are very appreciative of Babs and Michael for their support of Auburn and Auburn Athletics," he said.
The Andersons are members of Auburn Athletics' Oaks Society, signifying their longstanding generosity to Auburn Athletics. They also belong to Auburn University's 1856 Society, having supported the construction of Auburn's new nursing building, the College of Human Sciences, and scholarships in honor of Babs' father.
"Babs' passion for Auburn is infectious," said Tim Jackson, executive director of Tigers Unlimited. "As a Tigers Unlimited board member, she has heavily invested her time, energy, and resources to help ensure our student-athletes have what they need to be champions - in competition, in the classroom, and in life."