Ancilla College officials broke ground on the new residence hall Tuesday afternoon.
The three-story facility and student life dining center is expected to open on Aug. 1, just in time for the fall semester. The residence hall will be home for nearly 100 new students. The project includes a separate dining facility, fitness area, media center, two-story lobby with fireplace and prayer rooms.
Ancilla College President Dr. Ken Zirkle told those in attendance yesterday that this is just the beginning of great things to come at Ancilla.
“This is really, from my perspective, a pivotal moment for this college,” said Dr. Zirkle. “The college has done well for a long time, but now we’re going to take strides into something even greater. It takes the cooperation of a lot of people to make that happen. This residence hall will signify some great things.”
He says the addition of a new building will breathe new life to the campus atmosphere.
“It signifies new life, encouragement, hope, and the fact that you are aiming for the future and you’re doing it in a very aggressive way. That’s sort of what’s happening here.”
Board president Francis Ellert said the project has been a dream for the school for more than a decade. Building plans are managed by Michael Kinder and Sons, Inc. of Fort Wayne.
Nearly 75 dignitaries, community members, present and past board members, sisters, developers, faculty and staff were in attendance to welcome the new construction to further improve the educational experience at Ancilla College.
It was also announced that the school is adding an agriculture program and women’s golf and soccer teams.
The College is hosting an open house today (March 11) with free lunch and information on degrees, housing, financial aid and more for potential students and families. Visit www.ancilla.edu for details.
Photo provided.
