Restoring the heart of the University of San Diego
Sister Virginia Rodee, RSCJ, ’57 (BA), ’74 (MA) sat alone in the back of Founders Chapel, reflecting. For her, this is the hidden jewel of the university. Every time she’s on campus, she is sure to visit the sacred spot. That’s what made August 25th such a special visit.
That day, a celebration was held to mark the completion of the renovation of Camino, Founders and Sacred Heart Halls. Before a ribbon-cutting and blessing, Sister Rodee took a moment in Founders Chapel to admire the fresh paint and polished floors.
A campus tour for parents and prospective students walked past her, bringing a smile to her face.
“If I were here with my child, I would say, ‘I just want her in such a learning atmosphere like this,’” she said. “That’s what Mother Rosalie Hill meant. They’d be attracted by the beauty, but you’d find goodness here.”
Leaving the chapel, Sister Rodee joined President Jim Harris, Vice President of Operations Ky Snyder and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Noelle Norton outside of Camino and Founders Halls for a brief ceremony. Together, the four used giant scissors to cut through a blue ribbon.
“This marks the refurbishment of the center and the heart of the university,” said Dean Norton. “We have to celebrate our new space over the next semester and celebrate coming back safely for this new, in-person experience.”
After the ceremony, attendees explored the renovated buildings. Major changes for the faculty and staff include dedicated space for theater and visual arts students in Sacred Heart Hall that will allow them to showcase their work.
In addition, communication studies students now have a lab where they can conduct interviews or collaboratively work on digital projects. Cozy couches and chairs have also been added to the new liberal studies students office to create a welcoming space.
Above the classrooms, even more changes have been made. The first-year residence halls in Camino and Founders Halls feature new heating, lighting, windows, ceiling fans, custom closets and furnishings, creating a homey feeling for incoming students.
The Camino and Founders Lounge has also been updated, featuring appliances for light cooking as well as dining room tables for friends to gather and enjoy each other's company. A newly added craft room is another option for residents to utilize.
“I’m sure there are hundreds of faculty and thousands of students who went before us who would be very proud of what we’re doing today,” said President Harris during his remarks at the celebration.
The completion of the renovation of Camino, Founders and Sacred Heart Halls marks a major milestone in the university’s Renaissance Plan, a 10-year initiative to build, renovate and restore academic spaces by the university’s 75th anniversary in 2024.
— Kelsey Grey ’15 (BA)