A History of Loyola University Maryland's Alumni Memorial Chapel
Loyola University Maryland, originally Loyola College in Maryland, boasts a rich history deeply intertwined with its Jesuit identity. Founded in 1852 by John Early and eight other members of the Society of Jesus, it stands as the ninth-oldest Jesuit college in the United States, and the first to bear the name of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Over its history, Loyola has transformed from a small commuter college into a residential university with a strong academic reputation. A key element of Loyola’s identity and physical campus is the Alumni Memorial Chapel.
The Genesis of a Chapel: Healing and Growth After World War II
The Alumni Memorial Chapel of Our Lady, situated on the western side of the Quad on Loyola's Evergreen campus, stands as a testament to the university's history and values. The idea for the chapel emerged in February 1945, when the then-president of Loyola, the Rev. Edward Bunn, S.J., announced the plans for its construction. This announcement came at a crucial time, as many Loyola students were serving in World War II. Beyond the practical need for a larger chapel to accommodate the growing student body, the chapel was also envisioned as a space for healing and reflection after the war.
The chapel 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.
Construction and Dedication: A Symbol of Enduring Faith
The construction of the Alumni Memorial Chapel spanned several years and was overseen by three Loyola presidents: the Rev. Edward Bunn, S.J., the Rev. Francis Talbot, S.J., and the Rev. Thomas Murray, S.J. As time passed and leadership changed, the sentiment behind building the new chapel shifted. Construction photo dated circa 1950. Gift of John McGrain. The chapel was designed by architects Gaudreau and Gaudreau to resemble a Gothic cathedral and built by noted contractor John McShain from Philadelphia.
The chapel was completed in 1951 and formally dedicated on September 15, 1952, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of Loyola University's founding. This dedication marked a significant milestone in the university's history.
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Architectural and Artistic Features: A Gothic Masterpiece
The Alumni Memorial Chapel is renowned for its Gothic architectural influences. The chapel features Gothic architectural influences with large stained-glass windows and a long, narrow nave situated along the east-west axis. As distinctive as the structural elegance of the chapel is, with the vaulted arches that frame the interior and the gargoyles and other carvings on the exterior, the beauty and grace are augmented by those spectacular windows.
The stained-glass windows, crafted by the D’Ascenzo Studios under the direction of Nicola D’Ascenzo, are particularly noteworthy. Nicola D’Ascenzo was born in Torricella, Italy, and immigrated to the United States in 1882. 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. 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 Holy Spirit, depicted as a dove, is central to the rose window over the altar.
The chapel features three images of St. Ignatius of Loyola. When a church was first envisioned for the Evergreen campus, the plan was to name it for St. Francis Xavier, one of the first companions of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
ROTC and the Chapel
The establishment of the ROTC program at Loyola in 1952 coincided with the dedication of the Alumni Memorial Chapel, becoming an integral part of campus life. The 1952 Fall term brought a new invasion of Evergreen. Freshmen and Sophomore students alone comprise its membership. The entire unit is commanded by Lt. Colonel Ralph E. Woodrow W. Jordan, Master Sergeants William L. Adlon, Edwin G. Furnee, Albert A. and Leo E. The Cadet Battalion Commander for the new group will be Charles H. with a year of previous R.O.T.C. experience at the University of Maryland. Shultz, ’55, will command “A” Company while John C. Beck Jr. Commander. Lt. regular army commission in 1942. Staff of the Army for four years. The Lt. will consist of a ninety hour drill and instruction period. the semester and the staging of a Military Ball in the spring. Army Officers who will inspect the state of training. The Very Rev. Thomas J.
The ROTC program was introduced into the college curriculum. military course under the direction of Lt. Colonel Ralph E. Vandervort (left). Major Woodrow Jordan (right). Master Sergeant Leo E. Geckle (bottom right). Major Woodrow Jordan (left) Inspects Radios with Lt. Colonel Ralph E. Cadets Dance at Inaugural Military Ball, April 25, 1953. Cadets at Inaugural Military Ball, April 25, 1953.
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The ROTC program has commissioned more than 1,100 cadets since its inception in 1952. ROTC life moved to the rhythm of peace and campus routine.
As the United States' involvement in Vietnam escalated, so did the ROTC's presence on campus. The Loyola Ranger Company, a separate Company alongside "A" Company and "B" Company within the program. Spring 1963, approximately 20 Cadets were members. one hundred Cadets a vigorous training program of class instruction and practical exercises. final phase of the exercise. increase in the Ranger membership from twenty to nearly one hundred. Loyola awarded its first ROTC scholarships in 1967 to three Cadets.
The “Greyhound Battalion” is observed for the first time in print. The ROTC program adapted to changing times, becoming coeducational in the fall of 1971, reflecting national policy.
Several Loyola ROTC alumni have distinguished themselves in military service. Captain John J. served two combat tours in Vietnam-1966-1967 and 1968-1969. Similarly, Lieutenant General (Retired) Michael F. General of VII Corps in Germany. Colonel (Retired) Frank E. deploying to Long Binh Post, Republic of Vietnam, 1971-1972.
Loyola's ROTC program continues to uphold the Jesuit educational mission and values through field exercises, academic instruction, and civic engagement.
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