By Mackenzie Langham | Week by week the new foundation for the new building on campus is slowly coming together, and it continues to draw the interest of students, and others in the community, passing by.
Assistant to the President for Special Projects Jacob Rohrer said that the Newbury Family Welcome Center is the first new construction project on Howard Payne’s campus in over 20 years.
“The Newbury Family Welcome Center is named for the family of Dr. Don Newbury, a 1961 graduate of HPU, 16th President of the University from 1985 to 1997, and current HPU Chancellor since 1997,” said Rohrer.
Rohrer added that the groundbreaking ceremony included participation by Dr. Don Newbury ’61, Dr. Cory Hines ’97, Ms. Deborah Cartwright ’73, plus many more.
“The groundbreaking ceremony for the Newbury Family Welcome Center took place on June 25, 2020. The event had originally been scheduled for March 31, but was postponed as part of the University’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak,” added Rohrer.
Rohrer confirmed that the Welcome Center will be built on Old Main Park.
“A circular drive will provide convenient access for off-campus guests. The facility will face the corner of Austin and Center Avenues,” said Rohrer.
The new facility will serve as an entry point to campus for visitors.
“The facility will house the Office of Admission, spaces for meetings and events, an area celebrating the longstanding history of the University, and more. The exterior of the building will be a combination of brick that complements the L.J. Mims Auditorium and the Walker Memorial Library, as well as a lot of glass that will give the facility a sleek, modern feel,” said Rohrer.
Senior Travis Taylor, majoring in Information Systems Management from Keller, said that it is something cool to show off and it is beneficial because it is a better location on campus.
“It shows where the family center is and waiting room areas are bigger. The admissions team and Yellow Jacket Ambassadors will greatly benefit from it,” said Taylor.
Junior TJ Shands, majoring in Christian Education with an emphasis in Bible from Stanton, said that he appreciates that there is a new welcome center being built.
“It is beneficial because there is more room for parking and the waiting room area will be bigger. I know the family’s that come in will be more comfortable,” added Shands.
Rohrer said that construction was delayed due to COVID-19, but is projected to be completed in February 2022.
“The University’s goal is to, upon completion of the Newbury Family Welcome Center, immediately begin construction on the renovations to the wings of the Douglas MacArthur Academy of Freedom Building that houses the Guy D. Newman Honors Academy,” added Rohrer.
God continues to bless and amaze those who see how He cares for and provides just what HPU needs at the right place and at the right time.