125 YEARS OF EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Campus Namesakes As Delaware Valley University celebrates 125 years of experiential learning, consider taking a walk on campus to visit some of these historically significant locations. Learn about people behind some of the named spaces on campus!
5Ida M. Block Chapel
5Lake Archer
The Ida M. Block Chapel is one of the oldest buildings on DelVal’s campus. The Chapel was gifted to DelVal in 1899 by Block’s family. DelVal founder Rabbi Dr. Joseph Krauskopf provided regular nondenominational services for students of all faiths at the Ida M. Block Chapel during his time as president.
Lake Archer, a favorite place for students and alumni on campus, was originally constructed in 1908 in memory of Archer Rosenthal. It was reconstructed in 1961 with support from the classes of 1961, 1962, 1963 and 1964. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Rosenthal donated funds for its construction in memory of their son, Archer Rosenthal, a National Farm School student.
Dr. Krauskopf was good friends with Block. She was a well-known leader in Jewish community organizations, charities and the local community. Open and accepting of different faiths, Block insisted on a strict rule of non-sectarianism in her philanthropy. Because of this, a non-denominational chapel was dedicated in her name on campus. Block dedicated her life to service. Learn about the Chapel Challenge Fund on page 35.
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Horizons
True to DelVal’s belief in real-world, hands-on experience, a faculty member Dr. Julian Prundeanu worked with students to redesign Lake Archer in 1961. Prundeanu and his students decided to drain the old lake. The new version was designed to serve as a rainwater basin, a source for fire protection and, as an “outdoor laboratory” for students. It is still used today by students and faculty as a living laboratory. The reconstructed Lake Archer covers an acre.
