Construction of New Chapel and Welcome Center Reaches Key Milestone

1960s photo of H. Maria Wright Hall

Momentum is building—visibly—for Taylor’s new Chapel and Welcome Center.

With completion set for Fall 2027, the project has entered a defining phase. Footers are in place and steel beams are rising skyward, marking the start of vertical construction for the space that will call generations of college students to worship, reflect, and grow in their faith.

As the structure begins to rise, so does the opportunity to honor the individuals and families whose generosity is making it possible.

With deep appreciation, the University is pleased to recognize four significant naming gifts that will preserve and carry forward the rich heritage of community and spiritual life on campus.

Preserving the Name: Rediger Chapel

chapel rendering
New Chapel Rendering

The University is excited to announce that the new Chapel will retain the name Rediger Chapel, honoring the lead donor’s request to preserve a deep connection to Taylor’s spiritual heritage. The name was first bestowed in 1976, when the renovated Maytag Gymnasium was dedicated as the Rediger Chapel/Auditorium in tribute to President Emeritus Dr. Milo A. Rediger ’39. The anonymous donor’s generous gift ensures that this meaningful legacy will be carried forward.

Karen and Larry Hill Atrium

The Karen and Larry Hill Atrium will serve as a vibrant, natural light-filled gathering space inspired by Romans 15:7, “Welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you.” Designed as a place for connection, the multi-story atrium will bring together students, faculty, staff, and visitors in a shared experience of community. Thank you to Karen and Larry Hill for funding this space that will embody the spirit of belonging that defines Taylor.

The H. Maria Wright Chapel Foundation

With gratitude for the generosity that continues to shape this project, an anonymous gift from the family of a Taylor alumna is funding the Chapel’s foundation masonry, as a symbol of the strong spiritual formation that has undergirded Taylor’s mission since its earliest days. The foundation will be named in honor of H. Maria Wright Hall, the first building constructed on the Upland campus in 1893, which featured a dedicated chapel. Though the building was lost to a fire on January 16, 1960, this gift offers a meaningful way to commemorate its legacy.

Historic black-and-white photo of a brick building with a tall tower, partly obscured by trees across a grassy lawn.H. Maria Wright Hall

The Anschutz Welcome Center

welcome center renderingWelcome Center Rendering

In recognition of the generous philanthropic support of the Anschutz Foundation, the new Welcome Center will be named the Anschutz Welcome Center and serve as the front door of Taylor. Each year, the University welcomes thousands of visitors from alumni to prospective students and other guests. The Anschutz Welcome Center will reflect the University’s warmth, vibrant community, and spirit of hospitality.

Additional naming opportunities are available for both the Chapel and Welcome Center. For more information, contact Dr. Mike Falder at [email protected].

An Invitation to Join

We ask for the prayers of the Taylor community for what God is doing through this space and the impact it will have on our community and beyond.

With the support of hundreds of generous donors, $49 million has already been raised toward the $68 million goal. With $19 million still needed to bring this shared vision to completion, we welcome the support of alumni, parents, and friends who value all that Taylor represents. In addition to giving, there are many meaningful ways to support this project. A conversation with a classmate or encouraging someone to learn more can spark interest and invite others to become involved. Together, these efforts can help ensure that future generations experience the same Christ-centered formation and community that distinguish Taylor.

Quote graphic reading, “This new chapel is the most important project in our lifetime,” attributed to Dan Wolgemuth ’77, Board of Trustees.

 

Learn More

Watch the new Chapel and Welcome Center take shape via our live construction camera.

Learn more about the new Chapel and Welcome Center.