BY KEVIN ALDRIDGE
The Cincinnati Enquirer
DELHI TOWNSHIP -- More than 400 alumni, trustees, donors and parents were at the College of Mount St. Joseph on Sunday for the dedication of the Jean Patrice Harrington Student Center.
The 75,000-square-foot multipurpose facility, named in honor of the school's former president Sister Jean Patrice Harrington, is the first major construction on campus since 1962.
Built in just over a year, the Harrington Center opened Aug. 24 as students returned for fall classes. The project cost about $7.5 million, paid for entirely through contributions, said Sister Francis Marie Thrailkill, president of Mount St. Joseph.
"A special thanks is reserved for the many (supporters) who made generous gifts to this project," Sister Francis Marie said. "It is their support that has made this dream a reality."
A ceremony was held in the center's gymnasium to honor the many leadership donors who supported the student center campaign. More than 80 students held "thank you" signs during the dedication. Sister Jean Patrice served as president of the college from 1977 to 1987. She was credited with developing innovative programs for students and bringing financial stability to the college.
"This is a very special day for me," Sister Jean Patrice said. "This building is a beautiful thing, and it is a testament to all of the hard work and dedication of hundreds of people who have supported this college over the years."
Blending into the campus architecture and offering a scenic view of the Ohio River, the two-level facility is on the southwest corner of campus and connects to the art building and additional athletic facilities.
The Harrington Center features a student leadership suite for clubs and organizations, offices for student development services, a wellness center, fitness center, children's center, food court, book store, media center, entertainment center, athletic training facilities, handball and racquetball court and gymnasium with seating for up to 2,000.
"It is truly a building for the students in that there is something here for everyone," Sister Francis Marie said.
"Our students are simply thrilled to have the additional space for themselves."
"A college student learns just as much outside of the classroom as they do inside of it," Sister Jean Patrice said.
"I'm so glad to see that this center has an ambiance that is warm and loving. It will be a place where students can learn skills from one another, form friendships and have a good time."
