Reconnected Through Renovation

Kathy Ulkus By: Kathy Ulkus

Ohio Weslyan UniversityOne of the oldest buildings on Ohio Wesleyan’s campus (1873) and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Merrick Hall was once home to the university’s science classes and alumni hall. Mothballed for nearly 25 years, the building has now been stabilized and fundamentally transformed. Mackey Mitchell, working in collaboration with the University’s faculty and project steering committee, conducted a condition assessment and programming study outlining the required upgrades for accessibility, life-safety, and technology.

Revitalized and reconnected through interior and exterior renovation (along with basic upgrades to its infrastructure), the historic building has become re-established as a prominent student-centered destination. It is also home to the OWU Connection, where students work with advisors to design their own co-curricular program. “The project opened on time and under budget” said Dan Hitchell, Vice President for Finance and Administration. “But even more importantly, it has achieved the University’s goal of providing a home for the OWU Connection, innovative teaching spaces and an elegant meeting space.” Merrick Hall is once again a vibrant landmark at the heart of OWU’s campus that will continue to serve student needs in a social academic culture that will serve them well into the 21st Century.