From the President
Not long after Augustana moved to Rock Island in 1875, its leaders recognized the need for additional classroom space. Begun in 1884 and dedicated five years later, Old Main remains the architectural icon of Augustana College.
Today our landmark building faces two pressing issues: its structural integrity and its viability as an effective academic building will be at risk if both are not addressed soon. Authentically Augustana: A Call to Action seeks as part of its $100 million comprehensive goal to provide for the refurbishment of Old Main, including replacement of its signature dome, modernization of its classrooms and offices, and the creation of new gathering spaces.
Old Main’s vital place on today’s campus is well attested to by Melissa Flowers ’09, whose thoughts you can read in this newsletter. It has maintained this vitality for well over a century because of the careful stewardship of many. And now it is our turn to take action on behalf of Old Main.
Steven C. Bahls
President, Augustana College
