BETTER ACCESSIBILITY WILL HELP WELCOME MORE TO BERGSTROM HALL BY PAM OWENS
In 2018, 92-year-old alumna Patricia Lucas traveled from her home in Boise, Idaho, to attend her 70th class reunion. It was a welcome homecoming for her, and one that we would like to make accessible for more alumnae in the coming years. As you know, the number of events continues to increase on campus and the number of alums attending these activities continues to grow. For alumnae with mobility issues, this has been a difficult proposition. While the lovely staircase that graces
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the entrance to Bergstrom Hall is sweeping and majestic, it can be overwhelming and daunting for those attending events in our Alumnae Dining Room. A modern glass-and-metal elevator that can whisk you to the main level without worry or stress has long been a dream for all of us who want to build a physical atmosphere that is as welcoming as the spirit we hold dear. I’m thrilled to tell you that at the January general assembly of the Alumnae Association they showed overwhelming support of getting this project done. So much so that they
committed to donating $150,000 (from Starving Artist Show proceeds) to sponsor the cost of the elevator! We are so very grateful for their enthusiastic and generous support to quickly address this important accessibility matter. This project is part of a much larger initiative that is integral to our future planning. Our strategic plan, “Thrive 2025: Our Plan for the Future,” was unveiled in the fall edition of the Mount Mary Magazine. This comprehensive strategic plan is in full swing and addressing a variety of areas on campus for Mount Mary to