Strategic Initiatives Campaign Preparing for Our Second Century: “Learning to Lead and Love in the Real World”

The University of St. Francis is grateful to all generous donors who made contributions and pledges between 2016 and 2021 to USF’s Strategic Initiatives Campaign. Donors who invested $10,000 or more in one of three identified strategic initiatives have been honored on a beautiful donor recognition art piece, created by Sherri Law Art Glass, which is now displayed at the entrance of the new LaVerne and Dorothy Brown Science Hall. The campaign’s three strategic initiatives included the construction of the new LaVerne and Dorothy Brown Science Hall, the renovation of Guardian Angel Hall, and the creation of the Wadsworth Family Commons in the library.

The Construction of the LaVerne and Dorothy Brown Science Hall (Main Campus) This work is transformational for the sciences at USF and for the university as a whole. With learning spaces and common areas to provide a setting for interaction both inside and outside classroom,

this facility enhances the learning environment for all science, nursing and education students. At the science hall dedication on February 8, 2018, USF President Arvid Johnson emphasized the importance of the new building.

“Today’s opening of the LaVerne and Dorothy Brown Science Hall opens a new chapter on our home campus, where this institution was founded in 1920,” he said. “Our new labs and learning environment will help the University of St. Francis further its mission of preparing students to contribute to the world through service and leadership, driven by a continuous pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, faith and justice.“

The new building was built, in large part, due to the generosity of USF’s friends, LaVerne and Dorothy Brown, William and Patricia Bellah, William and Margaret Benoit, Robert and Patricia Wheeler, Arvid and Anne Johnson, Joseph and Virginia Mallof, and the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate. For a complete donor listing, visit: https://goo.gl/VQauJG.

The Renovation of Guardian Angel Hall (St. Clare Campus) Due to the projected shortage in nurses across the country, the university wanted to be prepared to meet the needs of the community by increasing the number of students to enrolling in nursing education. The acquisition of the St. Clare Campus property from the Sisters of St. Francis allowed the Leach College of Nursing, along with numerous other university offices, to inhabit the perfect home. The renovation of Guardian Angel Hall was made possible by charitable gifts from USF’s friends, Ed and Gloria Dollinger, Bill and Diane Habiger, Thomas and Michele Vana and the Packey and Eileen Webb Family.

The Wadsworth Family Commons in the LaVerne & Dorothy Brown Library (Main Campus) The third and final strategic project is currently under construction. Brenton Wadsworth, a long-time friend and generous donor of USF, passed away on February 6, 2018. An investment by Brent and his wife, Jean, has been designated for

the renovation of the first floor of the Brown Library— creating a 24-hour open learning space that will be called “The Wadsworth Family Commons.” This past year, a glass staircase was installed to secure the library collection while allowing 24-hour access to the library. The next phase will include the creation of two multipurpose common areas for students to congregate and study. With adaptable furniture, the students will have wonderful spaces for group learning and socialization.

All three of these initiatives are important ways USF is preparing itself—and its students—for the university’s second century of service and leadership. President Arvid Johnson is delighted that 100% of the Board of Trustees made a commitment to the Strategic Initiatives Campaign. Additionally, other major donors made gifts to name classrooms, laboratories and common areas. Naming opportunities are still available—if interested, please contact Kristin Short, vice president for university advancement, at 815-740-3613 or Regina Block, major gifts officer, at 815-740-5065.