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An innovative tribute to acknowledge the founding fathers of King’s has finally come to be in the simple but important Holy Cross Founders’ Monument and Founders’ Walk, located as a pathway to the McGowan’s School of Business.
“It [the Founders’ memorial] establishes and recognizes priests and brothers who came here and started this college from very few sources,” says Bob McGonigle, Dean of Students at King’s.
A dedication and blessing were held Wednesday with attendees including Fr. O’Hara, members of the Holy Cross community, the family of former Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty Fr. Donald Grimes, C.S.C., Auxiliary Bishop John Doughterty of the Diocese of Scranton, alumni, and members of the senior staff.
Rev. Thomas J. O’Hara, C.S.C., Ph.D., President of King’s College, was at the forefront of creating the memorial in the founders’ honor. His concept, which involves simplicity but importance, is a fitting way to describe and tribute those priests and brothers who established the King’s community to educate the sons of coal miners in 1946.
In fact, Reverend Harold Rogan, C.S.C., who is a former Director of Security for King’s and has orchestrated finances for the King’s Holy Cross Community over the years, still graces the King’s community. Rev. Rogan is originally from Scranton but arrived at King’s in 1947 and has stayed there ever since.
The memorial, though, would not be possible without the support from generous sponsors. Beginning in 2005 and ending in 2008, the Capital Campaign was a fundraiser in which the college contacted potential donors to raise funds for various projects on campus. The campaign raised more than 30 million dollars, a portion of which would be put toward the Founder’s Monument and Walk.
The money was raised through phone calls and direct solicitations from faculty members, alumni, and representatives of various foundations. Additionally, the Holy Cross Founder’s Monument was donated by former alumni, Dr. Joe Balz and Dr. Marie McCauley.
Rev. Richard Hockman, C.S.C., Director of Campus Ministry and Assistant Superior at King’s, describes Dr. Balz as a true “catalyst” in the ongoing process to recognize King’s founders.
Although some people in the King’s community were concerned with the elimination of faculty and staff members’ parking spaces, many remain optimistic and satisfied with the result.
Fr. Hockman refers to the honorary memorial as a “beautiful addition to the park space atmosphere.”
“I think it’s a great idea to preserve environment around the school,” said Kellie Rhiel, a first year student.
While working on the ‘green’ addition to campus, other areas of the college requiring improvement were sought out. These areas included those around Hessel Hall and around the Sheehy-Farmer Campus Center. The additional renovations, aside from the Founders’ Monument and Walk, were intended to coincide with the dedication from the start. |
