Since ancient times, people around the world have celebrated new building construction with builders’ rites and other ceremonies. Scandinavians would place a tree on top of a new building to appease the tree-dwelling spirits that were displaced in its construction. In the Netherlands, a flag would be installed on the highest point of the new building and workers would be rewarded for their good work with free libations from their employers.
Continuing this long and revered tradition, PSU students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends gathered on January 30 for the signing of the last beam, the installation of which completes the structural phase of Active Living, Learning, and Wellness (ALLWell) North. “Ceremonies such as this mark a long tradition of celebrating a milestone in the physical construction but also in the outstanding commitment of stakeholders in making such a project possible,” says PSU President Sara Jayne Steen. “We are excited to be in the construction phase, and extremely proud to be bringing such positive change to our university and our region.”
When construction is completed this fall, ALLWell North will establish an attractive, welcoming entrance to the campus; enhance PSU’s faculty and student recruitment efforts; and transform the academic and athletic experience for more than 75 percent of the student body who will use the building as a classroom, as varsity competition and training space, as a place to participate in intramural sports, and other recreational opportunities.
Community members also will have access to programming, the indoor track, and indoor tennis courts. Additionally, the facility will be used for regional events such as sports competitions and high school track meets, as well as large events with up to 6,000 attendees.
Longtime Plymouth-area businessman and physical fitness advocate Paul Montour, a generous donor to ALLWell North, is impressed with the project’s potential for transforming the campus and upgrading the University’s academic and athletic programs. “To watch the evolution of the school, and how it has grown, has been outstanding,” he says. “I think it’s great for the community, the University, and for everybody involved.” – Bruce Lyndes
Gifts of all sizes have the power to create new opportunities for PSU students and faculty, and the greater community. Learn more about how you can make your gift to support ALLWell North or contact John Scheinman at (603) 535-2805 for more information.
Tags: academics ALLWell North athletics Last Beam Up Paul Montour
