Meeting Locations
Mitchell Center Arena
The main arena inside the Mitchell Center is a multifunctional space that has been used for a wide range of events. Designed with flexibility in mind, the arena easily transforms to suit everything from large-scale sporting events to elegant social gatherings.
NBA basketball, NCAA basketball, company banquets, wedding receptions, trade shows, concerts and live performances are just a few of the past events held in this space.
The Mitchell Center Arena can accommodate 10,040 guests.
| Room | Rate |
|---|---|
|
Main Arena (maximum occupancy: 10,040) |
$2,500 (non-ticketed event) + 10% gross ticket sales (ticketed event) |
|
Theater (maximum occupancy: 2,800) |
$2,000 (non-ticketed event) + 8% gross ticket sales (ticketed event) |
The Globe Grand Lobby
The Globe Grand Lobby is the perfect space to host an array of smaller-sized events. This space has been used to accommodate receptions, banquets, fashion shows, exhibitions and press conferences.
With the floor-to-ceiling windows providing natural light, this space is the number-one pick for a midday reception or exhibition. During an evening event, the North Exterior Plaza provides an amazing backdrop showcasing the University of South Alabama's Jaguar statue.
The Globe Grand Lobby can accommodate up to 180 guests, seated, in banquet configuration and approximately 500 guests for receptions.
The Waterman Globe first rested in the Waterman Building (now SouthTrust Bank) from 1948 through 1973 and was a major attraction in downtown Mobile.
Rand McNally Map Company painted the original aluminum exterior of the 12-foot diameter globe, which depicts countries as they were in the 1940's. The reconstructed globe rotates once every three minutes and 50 seconds. The globe's axis is identical to the Earth's.
The Waterman Globe was part of a total display of painted murals until it was cut into 300 pieces of scrap. Former USA President Frederick P. Whiddon saved the globe and stored it for more than 20 years, anticipating its restoration.
USA engineering technician Lanny McCormick completed the arduous task of reconstructing the globe in 1996. Local artist Joe Wilson worked as a modern-day Michelangelo, lying on his back at the globe's new home in the Mitchell Center to restore the paint.
The railing around the globe is original, augmented by new vertical brass safety bars. The globe's steel base was recycled from an USA campus soccer goal.
The globe made its second Mobile debut at the May 1999 USA Spring Commencement, which
marked the opening of the Mitchell Center. The University is proud to bring this Mobile
landmark back to life.
| Non-University Rental Rate | University Rental Rate |
|---|---|
| $475 (first 4 hours) + $100 each additional hour | $300 (first 4 hours) + $50 each additional hour |
John Counts Room
The John Counts Room is known for its private setting and elegant interior. This fully carpeted room has its own entrance as well as its own restroom. Decorated with chandeliers for intimate lighting, this is the number one location for a private event.
Seminars, receptions, banquets, expositions, dinners and fashion shows have been accommodated in this space. The possibilities are endless!
The room dimensions are 82' x 44' and can be separated into two rooms to accommodate smaller functions.
| Room | Non-University Rate | University Rate |
|---|---|---|
| John Counts Room | $400 (first 4 hours) + $100 each additional hour | $200 (first 4 hours) + $50 each additional hour |
| John Counts Room A | $275 (first 4 hours) + $50 each additional hour | $137.50 (first 4 hours) + $25 each additional hour |
| John Counts Room B | $275 (first 4 hours) + $50 each additional hour | $137.50 (first 4 hours) + $25 each additional hour |
Classrooms
The Mitchell Center features three versatile meeting rooms conveniently located on the arena-floor level along the north side of the building, offering easy access and a professional setting for gatherings of all types. Designed to accommodate both corporate and social events, these spaces provide flexibility, comfort, and functionality.
Meeting Room 1101 is ideal for larger presentations and seminars, providing theater-style seating for up to 173 guests. With its spacious layout and clear sightlines, it creates an engaging environment for conferences, lectures, and keynote addresses.
Meeting Rooms 1102 and 1106 each measure 25’ x 32’ and are well-suited for more intimate gatherings. These adaptable spaces can accommodate up to 40 guests in a reception or banquet-style configuration, making them perfect for workshops, breakout sessions, board meetings, or small celebrations.
| Room | Non-University Rate | University Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Meeting Room 1101 | $300 | $100 |
| Meeting Room 1102 | $150 | $50 |
| Meeting Room 1106 | $150 | $50 |
However large or small your event is, we have the ideal space for you. Allow our event coordinator to assist you in the planning of your event. We can make your event one to remember! To reserve your next venue, contact mcreservations@southalabama.edu to learn more.