A Legacy in Stone and Glass: The History of Alumni Memorial Chapels
Alumni Memorial Chapels stand as poignant symbols of remembrance, faith, and the enduring spirit of universities. These sacred spaces, often conceived in the aftermath of significant historical events like World War II, serve as both memorials to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and spiritual centers for the university community. This article explores the history, architecture, and significance of Alumni Memorial Chapels, drawing on examples from Loyola University Maryland, Michigan State University (MSU), and the University of New Mexico (UNM).
A Time for Healing: The Genesis of Loyola's Alumni Memorial Chapel
The story of Loyola University Maryland's Alumni Memorial Chapel began in February 1945, when then-president Rev. Edward Bunn, S.J., announced plans for its construction. This announcement came at a time when many Loyola students were actively serving in World War II. The chapel served a dual purpose: to accommodate the university's growing student body and to provide a space for healing and reflection in the wake of the war's devastation.
The project was overseen by three Loyola presidents, with the Rev. Francis Talbot, S.J., and the Rev. Thomas Murray, S.J., continuing the work after Fr. Bunn. As leadership transitioned, the sentiment behind the chapel's construction evolved, solidifying its role as a memorial. Completed in 1951 and dedicated in 1952 - the 100th anniversary of the University’s founding - the chapel stands as a testament to Loyola's commitment to honoring its alumni and fostering a sense of community. The church was created both as a memorial to those who lost their lives but also as a Marian shrine, dedicated to Our Lady of Evergreen who had protected so many members of the Loyola community during the war. The Rev. Edward B. Bunn, S.J., the president who launched the fundraising efforts for the chapel, wanted every member of the community to contribute to its creation. The chapel features images of St. Ignatius Loyola, St. John Berchmans, Our Lady of Lourdes, Our Lady of Fatima, Jesus, St. Blessed John Ogilvie, St. Francis Xavier and St. Robert Bellarmine. The Holy Spirit, depicted as a dove, is central to the rose window over the altar. The chapel was designed by architects Gaudreau and Gaudreau to resemble a Gothic cathedral and built by noted contractor John McShain from Philadelphia. Through the years, the stained-glass windows in Alumni Memorial Chapel have illuminated and enlivened the sacred space that serves as the heart of the Loyola University Maryland community. The D’Ascenzo Studios were led by muralist, painter, and stained-glass designer Nicola D’Ascenzo. His stained-glass windows bring grace and artistry to private residences, churches, and businesses throughout the United States, including the Folger Shakespeare Library and the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.
Remembering Spartan Sacrifices: The MSU Alumni Memorial Chapel
Michigan State University's Alumni Memorial Chapel, situated on Auditorium Rd near the Kresge Art Center and Baker Hall, shares a similar origin story. Construction commenced in 1950, and the chapel was dedicated on Alumni Day, June 7, 1952. The alumni of MSU funded the chapel to memorialize Spartan men and women who died while serving in the United States military forces during World War II.
Inside the chapel's narthex, a sign above the entrance to the nave reads, "These names represent those who died in the armed forces." The walls are engraved with 589 names and dates of the men and women who perished. While initially dedicated to those fallen in World War II, the memorial has expanded to include all MSU-affiliated men and women who died during military service.
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Designed in an Episcopal style, the chapel serves as an interdenominational spiritual center for all faiths and religions. MSU accepted over 30 gracious gifts from generous alumni, mostly stones from European cathedrals, to underscore this non-sectarianism. Some of the stones are over 500 years old, and some were from bombed-out churches. Stones hailed from St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey in London, from the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, and even from the White House. Stones also came from the ruins of a cathedral built by the Crusaders in Caesaria, the Roman capital of Palestine, and from a synagogue from Capernaum, where Jesus Christ reportedly preached. Carved into the chapel’s entrance wall are 487 names of those who served in wars and perished.
Adding drama, color and light to the chapel are the 38 dramatic stained-glass windows, most of which are arranged in groups of three, or triptychs. The images on one side depict ideals of civilization: Work, Abundance and Community, and Freedom of the Mind. On the other side, the images tell the history of the university, including such milestones as Morrill Act of 1862, which established Michigan Agricultural College as the nation’s pioneer land-grant university. Other windows explore various sacred as well as secular themes. Overall, these depictions celebrate moral and educational goals of Michigan State University, including: the Liberal Arts, Farmers Institute, Engineering, Student Activities, Applied Science, Agriculture, Learning, Faith, Hope and Love, Religion, Science, Technology, Creativity, Aspiration, Art, Brotherhood, Diffusion of Knowledge, Dignity of the Individual, International Peace and Respect for Truth.
Throughout the chapel are thirty-one stones taken from various European bombed cathedrals that have been set into the walls of the narthex, nave, chancel, and basement. Four stones are from England, two from France, twenty-four from Germany, and one from the Netherlands. Examples of some of the stones originate from St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey in London, Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, Cathedral of Regensburg in Germany, and more. There is also a stone from the White House and a stone from the grave of Henry F. Lyte, composer of “Abide with Me” for a total of thirty-three stones. Along with the stones, in a wooden display case in the narthex, is a collection of old Bibles. Sixty-nine bibles are in different languages, including Swahili and Burmese.
The MSU College of Music, in collaboration with MSU Student Life and Engagement, has worked with Letourneau Pipe Organs to design a versatile world-class organ to play wide-ranging literature associated with weddings, funerals and recitals. This spectacular new addition to an already stunning piece of campus history is versatile enough to play a wide literature associated with special ceremonies as well as function as a workable recital space for students and faculty.
Southwestern Adobe: The UNM Alumni Memorial Chapel
The University of New Mexico's Alumni Memorial Chapel, built in the early 1960s, offers a distinct architectural style rooted in the Southwestern tradition. The chapel was conceived in the mid-1940s with a desire to remember alumni who died in World War I and World War II, but it took a number of years to raise enough money to build it. The final plans were drawn up by renowned architect John Gaw Meem. Based on designs that Meem drew up between 1947 and 1954, it was erected in 1960-1962 by his successor firm of Holien and Buckley. Built with walls of concrete block, the chapel emulates the massing of traditional adobe structures and is modeled after a recognized type of mission church that Meem had already copied multiple times since 1928. The single-nave sanctuary with a transept clerestory has a characteristically inset facade, with a balcony over the entrance between two buttress towers and a crowning bell cote. The altar screen by John Tatschl was painted, at a later date (1983-1984), with images of New Mexican saints by the santero John M. Bunting.
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The UNM Alumni Memorial chapel holds a special place in the hearts of UNM alumni around the world. Some have celebrated their weddings at the chapel; others have experienced it when remembering a loved one lost in battle. But for everyone touched by the chapel over the last 50 years, it remains an enduring and iconic symbol of the University. The event's theme, "Celebrate and Remember," reflects the chapel founders' intent for a place for reflection, memorial services and weddings on UNM's Main Campus. Since 1962, it has been used to mark happy and sad occasions. It is one of UNM's architectural jewels and a cornerstone of campus life. It is probably the most beloved building on campus other than Hodgin Hall.
Architectural Styles and Design Elements
Alumni Memorial Chapels showcase a variety of architectural styles, reflecting the unique character and traditions of their respective universities. Loyola's chapel, for instance, evokes the grandeur of Gothic cathedrals, while UNM's chapel embraces the simplicity and warmth of Southwestern adobe architecture.
Despite these differences, certain design elements are common among Alumni Memorial Chapels. Stained-glass windows, often depicting religious figures, university milestones, or symbolic representations of knowledge and virtue, are a recurring feature. These windows not only enhance the chapel's aesthetic appeal but also serve as a source of inspiration and reflection.
Many chapels also incorporate stones or other artifacts from historically significant sites, further enriching their symbolic value. MSU's Alumni Memorial Chapel, for example, features stones from bombed-out European cathedrals, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during wartime.
A Place for All: Interfaith and Inclusivity
While some Alumni Memorial Chapels may have originated from a specific religious tradition, they often strive to be inclusive and welcoming to people of all faiths. MSU's chapel, for instance, is an interdenominational spiritual center that serves as a place of worship and reflection for students, faculty, and alumni from diverse religious backgrounds. Accessories for various types of worship are available onsite.
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This commitment to inclusivity is also reflected in the design and programming of Alumni Memorial Chapels. The selection of stained-glass window designs, the incorporation of interfaith symbols, and the hosting of diverse religious and spiritual events all contribute to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of the university community.
Weddings, Memorials, and Milestones: The Chapel as a Center of University Life
Alumni Memorial Chapels serve as more than just memorials; they are vibrant centers of university life, hosting a wide range of events and activities. Weddings are a particularly popular use of these spaces, with many alumni choosing to exchange vows in the chapel where they once attended classes or shared special moments. At the MSU Alumni Memorial Chapel, all ceremonies are treated equally with the same care and reverence, and provide a setting appropriate for any faith. To ensure a smooth, successful event, wedding parties will have access to the chapel only during their specific time block. This schedule should include all delivery and removal of any services, including floral. The sales office will schedule your rehearsal at the time we book your chapel reservation. Rehearsals are an hour long and are typically held the day prior to your wedding.
Memorial services and remembrance ceremonies are also frequently held in Alumni Memorial Chapels, providing a space for the university community to grieve and honor those who have passed away. These services often hold special significance for alumni who have lost classmates, professors, or friends.
In addition to weddings and memorials, Alumni Memorial Chapels may also host concerts, lectures, and other special events that contribute to the intellectual and cultural life of the university.
Accessibility and Preservation
Recognizing the importance of making Alumni Memorial Chapels accessible to all members of the university community, many institutions have undertaken efforts to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Wheelchair accessibility via an exterior ramp. Seating is on the first floor with front pew modifications. Please note: the Chapel was constructed without an accessible restroom, as a pre-Americans with Disability Act facility. Parking: Limited meter parking is available adjacent to the chapel.
Preserving these historic structures for future generations is also a priority for many universities. Renovation projects, such as the one undertaken at Saint Viator High School chapel, ensure that these sacred spaces continue to serve as meaningful centers of university life for years to come. Nancy Doolittle, granddaughter of former UNM President James F. Zimmerman (1927-1944), has established a $10,000 matching gift to fund many needed renovations for the historical building.
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