EAST WALNUT HILLS — Cincinnati Archbishop Daniel E. Pilarczyk on Sunday dedicated a new $8 million addition named for him at Purcell Marian High School.

        The Daniel E. Pilarczyk Education Center in East Walnut Hills includes a media center, The Marianist Library, Caritas Chapel, an auxiliary gymnasium, classrooms and athletic facilities.

        The addition strengthens the school's commitment to remain in East Walnut Hills, despite being landlocked, and continues revitalization of the neighborhood.

        About five years ago, Purcell Marian educators took their project plans downtown for the archbishop's blessing. He gave them the go-ahead.

        “But in the back of my mind, I said, "They'll never be able to do that.' I was wrong, and I'm glad I was wrong,” the archbishop said at the dedication.

        Principal Jan Kennedy recalled seeing the doubt in his eyes that day, but said the archbishop had faith in them anyway. “I was so appreciative not only of his support of us, but his leadership of the church. And, he is one of the most eminent scholars in our city.” What better example for students, she said, than to name the addition for him.

        Matt Barney, a 17-year-old incoming senior, said the addition furthers the school's mission to educate the whole person with facilities for academics, athletics and spirituality.

        Purcell Marian's student population is 60 percent white, 38 percent African American and 2 percent Asian and Latino. It's the city's only Catholic high school with a program for students with developmental disabilities.

        The new elevator will eliminate the need for students to carry students who use wheelchairs up and down stairs to classes.

        The co-ed Catholic school has more than 700 students, but expects the new addition will help increase enrollment.

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