Learning Commons Receives Additional Board Support The Saint John’s Learning Commons continues to receive strong support from members of the Saint John’s Board of Trustees. Recently three more board members stepped forth with financial commitments to this construction project: Pat and Kris Ellingsworth ’70, Bill ’82 and Amy Jeatran, and Tom Schnettler ’79 and his wife, Cheryl Appeldorn, CSB ’81. “I am deeply grateful for the continued commitment of board members, “commented Fr. Bob Koopmann, OSB, president emeritus. “The board has really stepped forward in support of this project during my tenure as president.” The Saint John’s Learning Commons will be a dynamic state-of-the-art academic facility that will foster integrated thinking and engaged learning and research. This project includes the conversion of Alcuin Library into a Learning Commons and the construction of a 40,000-square-foot addition that will include classrooms, study areas and a technology center.

Bill ’82 and Amy Jeatran “We are very excited to support the new Learning Commons. As a past SJU student, the library was the primary place where we would study. Very little has changed in the structure and environment of the old library in the 30 years since I graduated, yet very much has changed in how today’s students study, collaborate and learn. As a parent of a current SJU student, I can see how important it is that we transition the old, outdated library to a new learning commons that is reflective of how students learn and study today. As a trustee, I understand the importance of making sure our learning environments are among the best and provide exceptional learning opportunities for our current and future students.”

Pat and Kris Ellingsworth ’70 “It is a pressing need to convert the historical format of a library to a modern academic learning environment. I applaud Saint John’s efforts to do so, particularly in such a manner that it enhances the view of the Abbey Bell Banner from inside Alcuin Library, thus maintaining Marcel Breuer’s vision of creating a dynamic conversation between faith and reason.”

Tom Schnettler ’79 and Cheryl Appeldorn ’81 “The quality of the academic program at Saint John’s is critical to the University’s vitality and economic well-being in an increasingly competitive market. The Learning Commons will provide many opportunities for our students, faculty and staff to ensure the educational experience at Saint John’s is second to none.”

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