A local businessman and inventor, Ervin J. Nutter, donated $1.5 million to Wright State University in 1986. Funds from both the state ofOhio and the university contributed an additional $8 million to construction efforts which began in 1988. Work was completed twenty months later and on December 1, 1990, the Nutter Center held its first official event.[6][7]
Gloria Estefan played the Nutter Center on her comeback “Into The Light World Tour” on August 19, 1991.
Dire Straits played on their final tour, the ‘On Every Street’ tour. They played the Nutter Center on February 21, 1992.
The bandPhish played a concert at the venue on December 7, 1997, which was released in its entirety on their 2008 live albumLive Phish 12.07.97.[19]Phish also played at the venue in 1995, 2017, & 2023.[20]
Barack Obama's "Keeping America’s Promise" rally, on Monday, February 25, 2008.
“Road to the Convention Rally” on August 29, 2008, at which timeSarah Palin, Governor of Alaska, was announced as presumptive Republican presidential candidate John McCain's vice-presidential candidate, or running mate.
On May 17–18, 2013, the Nutter Center hosted the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 2013Science Olympiad National Tournament.
The Nutter Center was originally scheduled to host thefirst 2016 presidential debate but the venue was changed due to security and financial concerns.[21]
The Nutter Center is frequently used as a competition venue for theWinter Guard International indoor percussion,color guard, and winds championship.
