Originally published November 19, 2010
The Bradley community will be able to look forward to the completion of campus’ newest addition – the Hayden-Clark Alumni Center – by mid-2011.
“Currently the goal is to have the structure fully enclosed by winter to allow the interior to be finished,” Planning Supervisor Kim Green said.
The stone being used for the exterior was quarried in Indiana,and is the same stone used for Bradley Hall, Westlake Hall and the Hartmann Center.
“It will celebrate Bradley traditions, memories, memorabilia and showcase Bradley experiences by decades,” Vice President for Advancement Pat Vickerman said. “With more than 60,000 alumni worldwide, the university recognizes the importance of engaging alumni.”
Vickerman acknowledged that graduates are one of the most important parts of the Bradley community.
“Alumni continue to play a vital role in Bradley’s future through the recruitment of students, providing internships, mentoring, guest speakers, networking, employing graduates and financially supporting the university,” he said.
The new alumni center will have six conference rooms, one of which will feature a fireplace replicating the one in Lydia Moss Bradley’s home.
It will also house a small theater, a balcony and terrace looking out on the new Alumni Quad.
The center will host many events for alumni, students, faculty and graduates, including Homecoming activities, reunions, class meetings, the Rising Star Dinner, the Founder’s Day luncheon and graduate receptions.
“I think it’s great that we will have a place where past and present Bradley students will be able to share their experiences,” junior psychology and social work major Colleen Breitenstein said.
The Advancement Office has received more than $8 million in gifts and commitments toward the $12 million goal for the facility.
“Students, faculty and staff can expect a first-class facility that will honor Bradley’s proud heritage and inspire our bright future,” Vickerman said. “The facilities will provide valuable meeting space that will help enhance and sustain the Bradley experience.”
