WELCOMING THE WORLD: A LOOK BACK As we eagerly anticipate the opening of the new Welcome Center—the centerpiece of the historic Welcoming the World: Honoring a Legacy of Love campaign—we are taking a look back on some of the components of Welcoming the World campaign that have already been completed. The Peter C. & Emajean Cook Transportation Center, the Covenant Learning Center, the upgraded Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater and the Stuart and Barbara Padnos Rooftop Sculpture Garden have all made their debut over the past two years to the delight of guests, members and staff. And in the short time that these spaces have been open, wonderful things have happened. The Peter C. & Emajean Cook Transportation Center was very busy in 2019. Over 32,000 riders enjoyed a tram tour, with as many as 18 tours taking place per day in the warm summer months. These tram rides were all driven and narrated by volunteers. The tram station was designed to create a central hub for the departure of tram tours and to create a beautiful space where guests could purchase tickets, interact with staff and volunteers, get a drink or fill up a water bottle and use the restroom. 14
ORGANIZATIONAL HIGHLIGHT
2019 was also a year of smashing success for the Covenant Learning Center (CLC). Built to accommodate a growing number of classes, programs and camps, the CLC exceeded expectations with a banner year of student and adult learners, plant shows and a whole lot more. Over 33,000 student visitors learned with us in 2019 and were treated to new and reinvigorated classroom activities using technology like SMART boards, iPads and digital microscopes. There were over 5,700 class and summer camp participants, who participated in activities like the Butterfly Ballet, Animal Adventures and classes for both adults and children. There were 168 classes and camps offered, filling the new space with guests exploring interests in art, gardening, and more. And soon, the Covenant Learning Center will have a new draw for families, as planning for the interactive exhibition in the David & Carol Van Andel Children’s Gallery is well underway, with an expected opening in early 2021. The Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater has long been a highlight of Meijer Gardens’ summer offerings, with sensational music from all genres gracing the stage
