Storm Lake, Iowa (September 8, 2025) – Buena Vista University (BVU) celebrated the official ribbon cutting of its new 3D Archery Range on Monday, welcoming students, community members, and supporters to campus for the milestone event.
 
The new outdoor facility, located at near campus features 21 high-quality, life-like 3D animal targets along a scenic, prairie course. The range will serve as a practice space for BVU's rapidly growing archery program while also supporting youth training, outdoor recreation, camps, competitions, and conservation education opportunities.
 
The range was made possible through a generous $10,000 gift from Clay County Pheasants Forever Chapter 42, whose support has played a key role in the growth of BVU Archery.
 
"We are incredibly grateful to Clay County Pheasants Forever for their partnership and generosity," said Conner Ellinghuysen, Director of Admissions and Head Archery Coach. "When we started BVU Archery in Fall 2022, we had just six student-athletes. Today, we're proud to have 25 on our roster. This range represents not only how far we've come but also where we're headed."
 
The BVU Archery program has built its foundation on a mission that emphasizes more than competition. "BVU Archery is about building focus, discipline, and resilience to shape confident student-athletes and strong teams. We support each other on and off the range, making a positive impact in our communities and inspiring others to find their potential," Ellinghuysen shared.
 
Looking forward, the team's vision is to be a trailblazing leader in collegiate archery, one that develops leaders, fosters strong communities, and inspires growth both on the range and in life.
The ribbon cutting ceremony, held under sunny skies with just a touch of wind, highlighted not only the program's growth but also its future. "This range is more than a place to shoot arrows," Ellinghuysen added. "It's a symbol of community, resilience, and opportunity, for our students, for youth archers, and for the future of archery at BVU."
 
For more information about BVU Archery, visit bvu.edu/archery or follow us @bvuarchery on Facebook and Instagram.