Just a few weeks ago we held the ceremonial opening of Swartz Hall. It was amazing to see all of the people who made this total renewal happen gathered together in this space.
What has been equally amazing to see, as we’re now well into the first semester with the renewed building, is the way in which all of the changes and improvements have helped facilitate community. Student groups are constantly making use of the new multifaith space and renewed Williams Chapel. The patio just outside the new main entrance has become a go-to spot for studying, eating, and conversing around the new outdoor fireplace. The modernized classrooms are enabling our faculty and students to teach and learn with the latest technology. And all of this is being done inside a building that’s healthier for all of us and the environment.
Although I’ve only been at HDS for a few months, I’m so grateful to be at this point—to see the finished project fulfill so many goals and aspirations.
At the ceremonial opening earlier this month, a video was played that beautifully captures what this renewal means to the HDS community. I urge you to take a look below.
With the project complete, it is time to close out this blog. Before doing so, I want to thank the people who provided insight through these posts to keep the HDS community updated on the renewal progress: Philip Chen and Ed Rice of Ann Beha Architects, Joseph Lombardi and Glen Ryan of Shawmut Design and Construction, and of course, my predecessor, Ralph DeFlorio.
And thank you to those who read these updates. I hope you found them as informative as I did. You can check the HDS website for any future news on Swartz Hall. Thanks for reading.
—Mark