ARDMORE, Okla. – A new feature was added to the Chickasaw Nation Carter service campus in Ardmore during July 23 ribbon cutting ceremonies.

Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby was joined by local officials, tribal officials and dozens of area residents to mark the opening of the new Ardmore Community Center at 907 Locust St. in Ardmore, Okla.

“The Chickasaw Nation knows – the people know –  the importance of family and fellowship and how each of these can enrich the lives of our citizens,” said Gov. Anoatubby. “Now, this community center is one more way to underscore that focus on family and community.

“This community center helps us fulfill our mission of enhancing the quality of life of the Chickasaw people. And we believe by improving the quality of life of Chickasaw people we help improve the quality of life of the entire community,” said Gov. Anoatubby.

The 15,000 square foot center is equipped with a catering kitchen for large events and a family style kitchen for smaller gatherings.

A large banquet room with an elevated stage, dressing room and sound booth is designed to serve as a venue for a variety of events. It is equipped with a state-of-the-art audio visual system that includes an overhead projector, large on-stage screen, and four additional 70 inch monitors.

The system is also connected to monitors in the lobby and two meeting rooms.

While those meeting rooms may serve as overflow seating for the banquet room, they also include stand-alone audio-visual capabilities.

Meeting rooms are separated by a folding partition so they can be used separately or joined into one larger meeting room. Each meeting room has a built in hospitality counter.

The exterior was completely revamped to complement other buildings on campus. A large parking area was added and the new site received updated landscaping.

The Community Center will be available for use by Chickasaw citizens and their families for events such as family reunions, weddings, birthdays, baby showers, conferences, trainings, meetings, etc.

Formerly home to Carter Seminary, the Carter Service campus is named for Charles David Carter, a Chickasaw who was the first person elected to represent the Fourth District of Oklahoma in the U.S. House of Representatives. Carter served in Congress from November 16, 1907 to 1927, representing Oklahoma’s third Congressional District after redistricting in 1915.

For more information call the Ardmore Community Center at (580) 222-2929.