UW-Oshkosh dedicated the Mary Beth Nienhaus Softball Complex, Oct. 30, 2025. PC: Fox 11 Online
OSHKOSH, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — An athletic facility on the UW-Oshkosh campus was formally dedicated Thursday.
It’s named the Mary Beth Nienhaus Softball Complex after a retired Fox Valley teacher and decorated golf pro who has made it her life’s mission to give back to others.
“What an incredible day to be a Titan, and what a truly special day to celebrate a remarkable individual whose impact has stretched far beyond any court, any fairway or any classroom,” said Assistant Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Darryl Sims. “Today, we gather to honor a legacy built on generosity, leadership and an unshakable belief in the power of sport to transform lives. Mary Beth Nienhaus is quite simply a force of nature.”
Nienhaus said she’s humbled to have her name associated with the home of UWO softball, describing it as a place where excellence, character and community come together.
“Supporting women’s athletics has long been a personal passion of mine. I’ve witnessed firsthand how sports opens doors and builds confidence for young women, empowering them to reach their full potential in every area of life,” said Nienhaus.
It is my hope that this facility will continue to inspire generations of student-athletes to chase their dreams, to compete with passion and to know that their hard work and dedication matters.
For decades, Nienhaus has been one of the most prominent philanthropists in the Fox Valley region. She is known for her generous donations to community projects and nonprofits, including Appleton’s new senior center, which is aptly named the Mary Beth Nienhaus Activity Center.
Other causes supported by Nienhaus include the Fox Valley Humane Association, the Appleton History Museum, the Appleton Public Library, the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Fox Valley, local sports complexes and pickleball courts, affordable housing for veterans, the Fox Cities YMCA and the Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity, to name just a few.
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