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QUINCY, ILL. -- A new performing arts center took center stage in Quincy Saturday afternoon.

The grand opening of the Connie Niemann Center for Music opened its doors to more than 300 people for its first ever concert on Quincy University's north campus.

"It's been our pleasure. So happy this afternoon is finally here and we get to really enjoy," Connie Niemann said.

Rich and Connie Niemann are active QU alums. The center was made possible by a million dollar gift from the Rich Niemann and the Niemann Foundation.

"She's done so much to help me in my career and all the things that I've tried to do. She's been such a great help in the community, civic, music, everything and she's just worked so hard to help education.It was just fitting, because, so many times I've received a plaque, her name should've been on it too," Rich Niemann, Sr. said.

Saturday's concert included QU musicians and singers as well as other alums.

The Niemann's say they believe the new center for the arts will raise the bar for area musicians and will also be a recruiting tool for Quincy University.