Foundation Grant and Local Gift Launch
Renovation of Historic Union College Building

Union College learned this week that it has been awarded a grant from the James Graham Brown Foundation in Louisville, Kentucky. The $220,000 grant, together with a $50,000 leadership gift from a local donor, will help fund the first phase of renovations for the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Gymnasium.

Union’s commitment to the restoration of Soldiers and Sailors reflects an understanding of the building’s historical importance and the sentimental value it has for many. “We had to decide if we were willing to let it go and start from scratch, or make an effort to save it. Most of us agreed that it is far better to preserve the character and personality of our campus. Soldiers and Sailors is an important part of our history, and we are delighted that it can be renovated and returned to use,” says Vice President for Advancement, Denise Wainscott.

The gymnasium was constructed in 1919 in response to student requests for more recreational space. The Union community chose to build it in memory of Union students who lost their lives in World War I. In 1984, Soldiers and Sailors was placed on the National Register of Historic Buildings. Years later, deterioration and safety concerns prohibited its use, and it has for some time been closed to students.

A recent decision by Union’s Board of Trustees emphasized the importance of preserving key campus buildings, and allowed administrators to hire professionals to evaluate the condition of Soldiers and Sailors. After determining that the building was a candidate for restoration, Union developed a renovation plan. The $220,000 grant, $50,000 anonymous donation and other individual gifts will fund phase one of the project, which involves various measures to stabilize and seal the structure.

Once renovations are complete, Soldiers and Sailors will once again meet the recreational needs of Union’s growing student body. The lower-level will house weight and exercise rooms for all students, while the upper-level will be home to intramural activities and provide gathering spaces.

December 11th, 2006

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