A renovated entrance will soon welcome students and visitors at Muskegon Catholic Central. Upgrading the school's entrance on Barclay Avenue is the first part of a multi-phase project transforming the campus.
Muskegon Catholic Central alum Elizabeth Heminger and her husband, Robert Heminger, have donated $230,000 to support the project.
“My entire family went to Muskegon Catholic," she said. "To this day, it is one of the most impactful experiences of my life. I wanted to do something that could bring the school and community together in a way that fostered growth. Quite simply, I want more people to know how special this place is.”
The current project will include the creation of a park-like common space near the entrance, repaved parking lots, enhanced lighting, and upgraded sidewalks. It's all designed to add to the positive first impressions of MCC's exceptional programs.
"Our family is hoping to partner with the entire MCC family of alumni and our community, in creating an outside-in approach that will bring people into the school,” said Robert Heminger.
Once construction starts, the project is planned to take approximately three weeks and is intended to be done before school starts on August 21.
“We are energized by both the gift and the message of hope and sustainability it shares with the MCC Crusader nation, here in Muskegon and those across the country," said Muskegon Catholic Central President Ken Rasp. "Mr. and Mrs. Heminger have reminded us of the lasting impact of the Crusader educational experience. We are about transforming lives through education. This gift begins a process of physical transformation that will have great benefit for our community today, tomorrow and into a bright future for all students at MCC.”
The construction partners for this project are Andrea J. Riegler, architect PLCC of AJR Design, and Brian DeLong of Jackson-Merkey Contractors, Inc.
Established in 1953, Muskegon Catholic Central is an independent Catholic school serving preschool through high school students. The school’s mission is to educate each student in spirit, mind and body by fostering personal excellence within the Catholic tradition. Learn more at MuskegonCatholic.org.