Transforming Ohio Wesleyan University: Strategies for a Brighter Future

DELAWARE, Ohio – Ohio Wesleyan University (OWU) is on a mission to enhance student life on its campus. Thanks to generous donations and grants, there are exciting changes underway.

The university is transforming an old office space into a lively student hub called “The 1842”. This venue, named after the year OWU was founded, will wrap students in a cozy environment featuring billiards, duckpin bowling, and outdoor courts for basketball and sand volleyball. Plus, students can look forward to enjoying casual dining options.

The new hub is set to welcome students this fall, supported by anonymous donors and a gift from the late Richard and LaVerne Rowland, alumni who believed in OWU’s mission.

Along with The 1842, OWU is making room for modern spaces by demolishing Bashford Hall, a vacant residential building built in 1956. This project is funded by a $337,460 grant from Ohio’s Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program. The completed demolition is expected by the end of June. While plans for the new space are not finalized, the intention is to develop a vibrant green area for students.

Recent improvements at OWU include the opening of Bradford Milligan Hall, which offers housing for 124 seniors, renovations to Smith Hall and Trott Tower for first-year students, and the addition of various living arrangements that encourage community engagement around shared interests.

President Matt vandenBerg expresses confidence in this development. “Demolishing Bashford Hall isn’t just about removing an old building; it’s a strategic step for our future,” he says, emphasizing the significance of creating spaces that foster community engagement and recreation.

This revitalization reflects a larger trend in higher education. According to a 2023 report by the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO), many colleges are investing in student facilities to attract and retain students in an increasingly competitive landscape. This aligns with OWU’s plan to refresh its residential area while ensuring resources are directed toward its educational mission.

Students are excited about the upcoming hub. A recent survey showed that over 70% of respondents wanted more spaces for entertainment and socializing on campus. This response highlights the desire for more communal areas where students can connect and unwind together.

As OWU continues to enhance its campus, it remains focused on offering a rich student experience. Learn more about what life is like at Ohio Wesleyan by visiting owu.edu/student-life.

Founded in 1842, Ohio Wesleyan University is a leading liberal arts college in the U.S. Located in Delaware, Ohio, OWU offers over 70 undergraduate majors and competes in 24 NCAA Division III varsity sports. Their unique educational approach, known as the OWU Connection, helps students apply their learning in real-world contexts. OWU has been recognized as one of the “Colleges That Change Lives” and frequently appears on notable college rankings.

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