Marquette University has received a $10 million donation from an anonymous benefactor to build a new on-site residence for its Jesuit priests.
The donation includes $7.5 million to begin renovating the center of campus, where the existing Jesuit Residence is located. The other $2.5 million is earmarked for need-based scholarships.
The total renovation investment will be $15 million, using only donations. Marquette will now work to raise another $7.5 million to begin work on the project.
“This significant gift is a tremendous investment in the future of our members of the Society of Jesus who make such profound academic and spiritual contributions to life at Marquette,” said the Rev. Robert A. Wild, interim president. “And equally as important, this generous contribution to support scholarships will help us to continue to provide a world-class, transformative education that is both accessible and affordable.”
Marquette’s existing Jesuit Residence, in the 1400 block of West Wisconsin Avenue, was built in 1916 at the Stratford Arms Hotel and is now home to 44 priests. It will be torn down so additional green space and parking can be added.
The new Jesuit Residence will be located in the 1400 block of Wells Street, between the Alumni Memorial Union and Schroeder Hall.
It will have a focus on the Jesuit commitment to higher education and an eye on environmental sustainability, while promoting a communal approach to daily living. A chapel will be in the center, with additional space for worship and meetings, said the Rev. Jeffrey LaBelle, rector of the Jesuit community on campus.
Kubala Washatko Architects has been hired to design the new building.
