The homestretch is within our grasp

Only one wing left to go …

We tend to think of quiet, sleepy buildings over summer break when the students are away. But that was not the case here this summer at St. Bede. 

Crews were busily working at renovations in the main corridor of the first floor. They were given a mission to preserve the character of the 1890s building while incorporating much-needed modern efficiencies to better the student-learning experience … and that they did! 

It was a lofty task, but they accomplished it on time and within budget. And when we welcomed back students and teachers from summer break, they walked over the threshold of the Perino Science Center and were amazed to experience, for the first time, the continuity of the new 2019 construction of the science center and the historic preservation of the 1890 academy building. What a transformation it is! 

We are so proud and excited of how far the academy renovations have come since they began in January 2022. In just a year and a half, the entire second floor and one corridor of the first floor of the academy have been restored with a careful design that preserves the character of the woodwork and architectural elements of an 1890s building, such as the arched windows and functional door transoms, yet incorporates modern efficiencies with lighting and classroom technology that enhance the learning spaces. 

Katherine Zeller ’24 said the bright hallways and classrooms help her focus better and stay awake in class. 

“The classrooms have improved by more comfortable desks and seating because the desks and chairs move,” she said. “Our school also has improved with the newest classroom technology.”   

Reagan Stoudt ’24 is also very appreciative of the renovations. 

“The improvements in the classrooms help students focus on their learning in a comfortable atmosphere,” she shared.  

Milana Gayan ’24 was very grateful for the climate-controlled classrooms that now have air conditioning, which provided for comfortable spaces during the hot summer days the Illinois Valley experienced this past August. 

Religion and History Teacher Kevin Pullara said when students feel comfortable, they are set up for success.

“The renovations give students and faculty a feeling of comfort, which in turn gives them a great place to learn and teach,” he said. 

Following the work this summer, this leaves only one additional corridor of the main hallway to be renovated and then we can proudly say the academy renovations of the capital campaign have been completed. We are almost there! 

We are currently working diligently to secure $1,110,000 to complete the final corridor and replace 49 windows within the first floor. Our goal is to resume the work this spring. It can be done! 

This Homecoming, we are excited to welcome home our alumni and let them tour the newly-renovated hallways. Some alumni and friends have already seen it for themselves this summer and shared their thoughts. 

Jim Gamache ’72 enjoyed seeing a new, modern and bright academy and called it, “21st century classy.” 

 “No more dark hallways and exposed wires. Each room has its own personality. My two visiting grandsons, ages 14 and 16, thought the new computer center was really neat. They have nothing like it at the high school they attend. The refinished stairways bring out the richness of the original design,” he said. 

Jane Mastrangelo visited in August to see the room she and her family had dedicated in honor of her late husband, Jim Wojciechowski ’66, and was amazed that a building over 100 years old could look so warm and bright. 

“Kudos to your fundraising ability. This says a lot about people’s love of this school. The classrooms, halls, floors – everything is sparkling and beautiful with the latest desks and learning tools. I am proud that my late husband has a newly-renovated classroom named in his memory. I wish he could see how beautiful and modern his alma mater is today after all the wonderful renovations are completed,” she said. 

Dan Cawley ’70 was blown away by the transformation. 

“The quality of work and dedication of staff to meeting the needs of the current and future students is excellent. Parents can be assured their children will receive the best education available with the latest facilities, equipment and staff professionals,” he said. “I’ve always been proud to have graduated from the academy and find myself doubly proud of what’s been done to keep this necessary curriculum alive.” 

J.A. ’01 and Morgan ’00 Happ got to see the renovations during a trip to the Illinois Valley this summer. They were both very impressed by the updated look and revitalized feel. 

“The overall character remains while providing a more contemporary educational experience,” they stated following their visit. 

St. Bede has touched so many lives, in so many ways. Now is the time to consider giving back and investing in the establishment that has provided so much during a pivotal time in one’s life. You can help preserve the place we all call home so it can retain the Bruin tradition and continue St. Bede’s mission. Please reach out and let’s make this happen!