Towson University has announced the naming of the Keith C. Beyard Gymnasium and the Thomas B. Beyard ’77 Court inside the Towson Center, recognizing the extraordinary commitment of alumnus and longtime supporter Thomas B. "Tom" Beyard ’77 and honoring the values and legacy that inspired his generosity.

The naming recognizes Beyard's decades-long commitment to Towson University and Towson Athletics, particularly his unwavering support for women's sports and student-athlete success. Through his philanthropy, volunteer leadership and advocacy, Beyard has helped expand opportunities for generations of Tigers, leaving a lasting impact on the university and its athletics programs.

Beyard's support has also played an important role in the Campaign for Excellence, Towson Athletics' initiative to transform facilities and elevate the student-athlete experience. Improvements planned for the Towson Center include renovated practice spaces and enhanced training amenities designed to support athletic performance, health, wellness and academic achievement. The gym is now called The Beynon Family Gymnasium, a name that will endure with the naming of the Beynon Family Training Complex, which will house both the Keith C. Beyard Gymnasium and the Thomas B. Beyard ’77 Court, during Phase 2 of the Campaign for Excellence.

The new practice facility will bear the name Keith C. Beyard Gymnasium, honoring Beyard's father, a World War II veteran, entrepreneur and community leader whose example of hard work, integrity and service shaped his son's life and commitment to giving back. The playing surface within the facility will be named Thomas B. Beyard ’77 Court, recognizing Beyard's enduring connection to Towson University as he approaches the 50th anniversary of his graduation in 2027.

"Towson University has played an important role in my life, opening doors and creating opportunities that continue to shape who I am today," says Beyard. "Naming the court is a tremendous honor, but it was equally important to recognize my father, whose example of perseverance, character and service laid the foundation for everything I have accomplished. My hope is that students and student-athletes who spend time in this facility will be inspired to pursue excellence while remembering the values that make lasting success possible."

A 1977 graduate, Beyard's relationship with TU has spanned decades. Through his support of the Tiger Athletic Fund and numerous university initiatives, he has helped strengthen the student-athlete experience and advance opportunities for women's athletics. His commitment reflects a belief that athletics can serve as a powerful vehicle for personal growth, leadership development and educational success.

The naming comes as the university continues to invest in facilities that support student-athlete excellence and competitive success while providing transformational experiences for future generations of Tigers.

"Tom Beyard's impact on Towson University extends far beyond his generous support," says Steve Eigenbrot, vice president of athletics. "This naming recognizes not only his commitment to Towson Athletics but also the values of service, leadership and generosity that define both Tom and his family. We are proud to honor their legacy in a space that will inspire our student-athletes for years to come."

For Beyard, the dual naming represents more than recognition. It reflects a multigenerational story rooted in education, service and opportunity.

"The achievements we celebrate often begin long before a student arrives on campus," Beyard said. "They begin with parents, mentors and communities that encourage hard work, integrity and perseverance. By honoring my father through the Keith C. Beyard Gymnasium, I hope his legacy serves as a reminder that the greatest accomplishments are built on a foundation of character and service to others."

The Keith C. Beyard Gymnasium and Thomas B. Beyard '77 Court will serve generations of TU student-athletes, reflecting a legacy that connects the university's future to the enduring values that have shaped the Beyard family for decades.

About Towson University

Towson University repeatedly ranks as the #1 public university in Maryland, serving as the state’s university of opportunities. With more than 160 years of experience pushing possibilities, TU is a nationally recognized comprehensive public research university, known as a leader in inclusive excellence, social mobility, scholarship and the creative arts. As the largest university in greater Baltimore, TU’s momentum is always accelerating, with more than 20,000 students and more than 200 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs in business, science, education, fine arts, health professions, humanities, social sciences and applied professional fields. Located in Towson, Maryland, amid one of the country’s cultural and economic epicenters, TU is a powerful engine of opportunity and catalyst in the Mid-Atlantic, partnering with hundreds of businesses and organizations, impacting communities and fueling change for the public good. TU meets the holistic needs of each student to achieve success, a result of a deeply inclusive culture with a focus on equity among all students, faculty, staff and over 200,000 alumni worldwide.