The Warren Wilson College Aquatic Center will unite body, mind and mission for purpose and progress. Sustainably designed, community-focused, inclusive and accessible, the facility will reflect the College’s learning-in-action ethos while enhancing wellness, athletic opportunity and regional economic development.
We are halfway toward realizing this vision. In addition to some private and county funding, on October 1, 2025, the College was awarded $1.6 million from the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority to support the expansion and renovations. The College must raise an additional $1.6 million over the next 2 years to complete the Aquatic Center.
We invite you to create a lasting legacy of athletic excellence, community engagement and shared prosperity—make a gift to support the Warren Wilson College Aquatic Center. Every drop counts.
We invite you to create a lasting legacy of athletic excellence, community engagement and shared prosperity—make a gift to support the Warren Wilson College Aquatic Center. Every drop counts.
The impact:
- A home for the WWC NCAA DIII swimming, diving and triathlon teams
- Year-round aquatic recreation and training for the community
- A driver of economic growth for Buncombe County
- Community partnerships for learn-to-swim, water safety and wellness programs
- Enhanced recruitment and visibility for WWC
“The symbolic meaning of this project cannot be overstated. After almost 10 years of inactivity, the Aquatic Center’s re-opening is a physical representation of the renewal of the College and builds on the tremendous momentum generated by the entire Warren Wilson community through the Progressive Promise for All.”
President Damián J. Fernández, Ph.D.
Aquatic Center Goals
Athletic Excellence
Warren Wilson College is committed to fostering a thriving athletic program that enhances student development and school spirit. The WWC NCAA DIII swim teams and women’s triathlon team train off site and cannot host meets on campus. The pool would be a training and injury recovery resource for all WWC athletes.
Wellness and Aquatics Education for All
Recognizing the critical importance of water safety and wellness, the Aquatic Center will offer a range of community learn-to-swim, aquatics education, water safety and wellness programs. These classes will provide vital community service.
A Catalyst for Regional Economic Growth
The Aquatic Center will serve as a valuable asset in driving economic activity in the area. By attracting out-of-market visitors for regional and national collegiate and high school swim and diving meets, educational programs, and recreational opportunities, the Center will generate increased hotel occupancy, restaurant patronage, and overall tourism revenue.
The WWC Women’s Triathlon Team, in only its second year, ranked second overall in NCAA DIII and qualified to compete at Nationals.
Anticipated Community Programs: Learn-to-swim, kayak rolling, lap swimming, water aerobics, water therapy
A Regional Attraction: The closest indoor competition pool with diving facilities is 160 miles away.
Legacy of Christiana Ransom
In the late 1980s, Christiana Ransom, who served as a member of the Board of Trustees for many years, made a gift of $1.2 million to construct the current Aquatic Center and provide an endowment to support its operation. She and her husband, Woodbury Ransom, were champions of the College. With this project to re-open the Aquatic Center, Warren Wilson honors the Ransoms, their support and legacy of service.
Recognition Opportunities
We offer a variety of recognition opportunities for our generous donors, including naming rights for key areas of the facility. Contact us to explore how your gift can be recognized in a meaningful and lasting way.
