UW-Parkside celebrates improvement and funding with Wyllie Hall Grand Reopening & Open House

The University of Wisconsin-Parkside is pleased to invite the campus and community to attend the Wyllie Hall Grand Reopening and Open House on Thursday, Sept. 15 from 4-6 p.m. This celebration of the recently completed Wyllie Hall Renewal Project is free and open to the public and will feature the dedication of Brookwood Foundation Main Place, named in honor of the generous multiyear gift of the Heide Family.

The Wyllie Hall Renewal Project, a $35.4 million state-funded initiative, updated infrastructure and key learning spaces in UW-Parkside’s Wyllie Hall, which opened in 1972. In recognition of donor support of student success, Wyllie Hall is now home to the Callahan Family Student Success & Learning Commons, the Brookwood Foundation Main Place, and the award-winning Library.

Chancellor Ford emphasizes the importance of the project for the mission of the university. “The Wyllie Hall renewal project and infrastructure updates make Wyllie Hall another asset for our students and our community to enjoy for years to come. We are grateful for the generous support of the State of Wisconsin and the legislators who funded this project as their investment demonstrates a commitment to student success. We also recognize the lead contractors, Camosy Construction and Lee Mechanical, for their amazing work and their commitment to strengthening our community,” says Ford.

UW-Parkside Library Director Anna Stadick explains how the significant changes to the library space, makes it more accessible for all library patrons. “This comprehensive first-floor remodel allowed the library to accomplish all the changes needed in order to give students a welcoming, modern academic library experience,” Stadick says. The open house will include tours and activities throughout the library and archives including a large maze and a showcase of the archives’ new movable compact shelving.

UW-Parkside is excited to recognize the generous gift of the Heide family with the dedication of the Brookwood Foundation Main Place. The C.P. and Anna Heide Scholarship was established in 2018 to benefit students with financial need. When fully endowed in the UW-Parkside Foundation, the family’s latest commitment will provide multiple, full-tuition scholarships each year, for years to come.

During the open house, attendees will be invited to visit the Callahan Family Student Success & Learning Commons, named in honor of the Callahan family’s investment in a new scholarship program for UW-Parkside students. This newly renovated space is home to many offices and services vital for student success.

Vice Chancellor for University Advancement Willie Jude II discussed the significance of the donation for the institution and our students. "Our donors work with us to make sure that students have the opportunities and tools they need to succeed in college and beyond. In addition to providing scholarships, the Heide Family has made investments in the future vitality of the community. We are incredibly appreciative of their generosity and dedication to supporting the academic success of our scholars,” stated Jude.

Following the dedication at 4 p.m., there will be a reception with refreshments provided and an open house of the many new spaces throughout Wyllie Hall including the Callahan Commons and the award-winning UW-Parkside Library from 5-6 p.m.

Attendees may register in advance at uwp.edu/wyllie. Guest parking available in the Rita Tallent Picken Regional Center for Arts & Humanities Lot. For more information, contact Executive Director of University Relations Tannette Elie at elie@uwp.edu or call 262-595-3262.