In 1968, alumni from the Class of 1923 formed the group "Friends of Pennsylvania Hockey," led by Howard Butcher III. Butcher himself donated more than $3 million (the equivalent of $27+ million today) for the creation of the facility, and along with John Cleveland and Bill R. Wise organized the largest class donation in university history. The arena was named after the class to commemorate its generosity.
Designed by Robert C. McMillian Associates, this building is a benchmark in ice rink design. Made primarily of poured concrete, the 60,000-square-foot arena is supported by 32 40-foot concrete columns around the exterior of the facility. The lower concourse includes eight locker rooms and various event rooms. The NHL-size ice surface is 85x200 feet with rounded corners, totaling 16,330 square feet.
Staff
Rob Harkins, CIRM
Director Business Services
Ice Rink Manager
Office: 215-898-1575
Cell: 302-249-6100
harkinsr@upenn.edu
William Richards, CIT
Assistant Manager
Office: 215-898-1923
Cell: 610-674-2674
wric@upenn.edu
Mike Petrocelli, CIT
Operations Manager
Office: 215-898-1923
Cell: 610-416-3649
mpetroc@upenn.edu
Katherine Quintero
Learn-To-Skate Director
Katquin@upenn.edu
