Topping Off the New Science Hall in Downers Grove

Last week, MWU students, faculty, and staff on the Downers Grove Campus had the opportunity to add their name to a piece of campus history. Dr. G invited the entire campus community to a "Topping Off Party" and beam-signing for our new Science Hall.

Photo: Dr. Goeppinger and Mr. Steven Chanen of Chanen Construction add their names to the beam.

So, under sunny April skies, long lines were formed around the academic quad of people eager to sign the beam. According to Dr. G, the tradition of topping out a new building is a Scandinavian custom, where a tree is placed on top of a building to appease the tree-dwelling spirits of their ancestors. As the practice migrated aroundn the world and to the U.S., it became symbolic of the last beam being hoisted into place.

At Midwestern University, the event represented the excitement of everyone on campus about this wonderful new building. Science Hall will be the home of the basic science faculty, featuring large laboratories for dental medicine and osteopathic manipulative medicine, faculty labs and research facilities, classrooms, the testing center, and even indoor parking. Construction is ongoing, with completion scheduled for spring 2011.

Photo: Adding my signature to the beam

As the beam was raised into the air high over the quad, with the United States flag on one end and a tree on the other, the entire campus burst into applause. Having added our names to the beam, we all felt the pride of watching our campus continue to grow and develop. We know how much this building will be appreciated by our students and faculty, and we can't wait for the ribbon cutting next year!