Greenville College is one step closer to its dream of a new chapel / auditorium large enough to accommodate its growing student body. A $1.5 million lead gift was received in December 2006 from one of the children of the late Edwin A. and Bessie Andrews, who served in the Free Methodist ministry in the early decades of the past century. This gift is the largest donation received by Greenville College from a living donor. 

Although the donor of the $1.5 million lead gift does not yet want to be recognized by name, the intent of the gift is to honor the memory and legacy of his parents, Rev. Edwin (also called E. A.) and Bessie Andrews. Rev. Andrews pastored the Spring Arbor Free Methodist Church and later served in the prominent role of superintendent of the Southern Michigan Conference. 

This gift comes at an opportune time. Signs of growth were everywhere this past year at Greenville College. Enrollment surpassed 1,000 for the first time ever, a new residence hall was built, the largest classrooms were at or near capacity, and NBC’s “Today Show” came to campus to profile the school as an example of the recent growth of Christian colleges. 

This growth was nowhere more evident than in overcrowded chapel services. Required chapel services are held three times a week in the 600-seat Wilson Recital Hall, and even with extra chairs set up in the back, the facility is no longer adequate for the growing student body. A satellite location with live video feed had to be set up in LaDue Auditorium across the street to handle the overflow. 

Preliminary planning has begun for the new facility, but, with a price tag of $5.5-8 million, it will be a few years before construction begins. The college wants to raise the entire amount needed in cash and pledges before breaking ground. 

External architects have suggested three locations, and a final determination will depend on the timing of further gifts. One popular location would be west of the Whitlock Music Center on the same block. 

Dr. David A. Hoag, the college’s senior vice president for Advancement, said, “It is much too early
in the planning process to know what features the project will include, but in order to be good stewards, we believe a facility with multiple uses will be best.” In light of growing campus needs, the facility may include additional classroom and office space.

Many needs exist for this growing Greenville College campus, including additional residence halls, an athletic field house and student development space. Significant gifts – such as this $1.5 million donation – drive possibilities and provide direction for pressing capital projects.