As Taylor University experiences record enrollment growth, construction of a new residence hall will soon be underway. Gentile Hall, named for Paul and Barbara Gentile, will be constructed on the current site of Freimuth Administration Building, which is scheduled for demolition later this year.
“Taylor University residence halls are named for individuals who embody and advance Taylor’s Christian mission and have lived lives of service for the Kingdom,” said Vice President for Student Development, Dr. Skip Trudeau. “Paul and Barbara Gentile are certainly worthy namesakes. They’ve been significant servant-leaders to both the church and to Taylor.”
Approximately ninety-four percent of Taylor students live in university-sponsored housing, which reflects Taylor’s belief that life in community is central to every student’s educational, spiritual, and social development. The investment in a new residence hall underscores the University’s commitment to providing meaningful, Christ-centered residential experiences that shape students outside the classroom.
Dr. J. Paul Gentile, a 1952 alumnus, is known for his roles as a distinguished physician, longtime Board of Trustees member, recipient of Taylor’s Distinguished Alumnus for Service Award, and disciple of Christ. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from Indiana University School of Medicine and built a substantial family practice in Fort Wayne. Dr. Gentile is admired by his community for his compassion and gentleness.
His late wife, Barbara, was a teacher marked by her care, concern, and Christ-like love for her students. Together, they’ve exemplified a legacy of faithful service, benevolence, and global ministry, including their work in Haiti with Grace Missions at Good Samaritan Hospital in Limbré.
Paul and Barbara Gentile and their family have supported Taylor with significant and long-standing generosity through gifts to scholarships, student programs, athletics, and capital projects. In their marriage of more than 50 years, they raised three sons and two daughters, many of whom are proud Taylor alumni.
The four-story hall will form an L-shape along the corner of West Reade Avenue and South Third Street. Co-ed by wing, it will house freshmen through seniors, continuing Taylor’s commitment to inter-class mentorship. The 273-bed building is scheduled for completion by summer 2027 with half of the building ready for students by fall 2026. In addition to the main floor lobby, shared kitchen area, and hall director’s apartment that are typical of Taylor’s residence halls, this building will also offer first floor university offices and meeting rooms facing Third Avenue. The design is based on significant feedback from students and alumni who encouraged a traditional residence hall plan prioritizing double-occupancy rooms, communal restrooms, and lounge spaces on each wing.
Reflecting on the housing expansion, current junior Claire Yost shared, “Taylor students are already excited for the open houses, traditions, and culture this additional residence hall will bring to campus. Residence life is such an integral part of who we are as a close-knit community.”
“We are growing, and Taylor remains committed to maintaining a strong residential culture,” Dr. Trudeau said. “I always tell alumni the things that happened when they were students here are continuing today—chapel, residence life, traditions. I think that’s spectacular.”
As Taylor expands campus housing, the University feels blessed to care for students during their time here. Just as Paul and Barbara Gentile have ministered Christ’s redemptive love, grace, and truth to a world in need, it is our hope and prayer that the future residents of this hall follow their example.
“It’s a privilege to be able to name this new residence hall in their honor,” Dr. Trudeau shared.
