Completed in April, 1998, the Trefethen Aquatic Center was made possible by a generous donation from a Mills College trustee in memory of Eugene Trefethen, a long-time trustee and a strong supporter of intercollegiate athletic programs at Mills College.

The facility was built to enhance the athletic and instructional programs offered by Mills College for students, faculty, and staff, to offer additional opportunities for increased fitness and well-being, and to encourage the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle in a beautiful environment.