Transformation of Alumni Hall Has Begun

The transformation of Alumni Hall has officially begun. Construction crews, led by general contractor P.J. Hoerr of Peoria, began reinforcing the historic building's foundation and exterior walls in early September, in preparation for the demolition -- and ultimate rebuilding -- of the building's current interior structure. The renovation is expected to move at a fast pace, with plans for steel work to be in place by Homecoming, drywall by Founders Day, and finish work by Commencement. A transformed Alumni Hall is expected to open by Homecoming 2014.

You can follow the progress of the transformation at blog.knox.edu/alumnihall. There, you will be able to view photos of construction, learn about the history of Alumni Hall, and see what is planned for the finished building. You can also share you memories of the building with the Knox community

"To begin the renovation of a building that has sat empty on our campus for nearly 30 years is a sign of the progress Knox is making to address the needs of a 21st-century education," said President Teresa Amott. "This progress was made possible by the generous support of the Knox and Galesburg communities, and I eagerly await the day when Knox students, faculty, staff, alumni, friends, and visitors will walk through its halls."

The renovated Alumni Hall is being built to LEED Silver specifications -- the first building on the campus to meet LEED criteria. Housed throughout the building's three floors will be these campus offices and signature educational centers:

• The Office of Admission
• Class of 1963 Office of Financial Aid
• Alumni Relations
• The Bastian Family Center for Career and Pre-Professional Development
• Eleanor Stellyes Center for Global Studies
• Gerald and Carol Vovis Center for Research and Advanced Study
• Mark and Jeannette Kleine Center for Community Service
• The Lincoln Studies Center
• The Dick and Joan Whitcomb Heritage Center.

Seminar and meeting rooms, as well as individual and group study areas, are additional features in the building.

In May 2013, 18 months after introducing a new vision for this historic campus building, Knox reached $11 million toward the renovation goal, including almost $6 million raised during the 2012-13 fiscal year, which ended on June 30. Funds are currently being raised to finish the interior work and add furnishings and contemporary technology to the building, as well as a landscaped terrace on the building's south side facing Seymour Library, Seymour Union, and Old Main. Give to the Transformation of Alumni Hall.