John Brown University receives $3 million grant from the Windgate Foundation

John Brown University has received a $3 million lead challenge grant from the Windgate Foundation for a new $6 million renovation project on Mayfield Residence Hall, the university’s historic women’s dormitory.

The challenge grant will match dollar-for-dollar donations to the project up to $3 million. The Mayfield Renovation Project is the newest initiative of JBU’s $125 Million Campaign for the Next Century.

“Mayfield has been a ‘home away from home’ for more than 10,000 women during its 52 years. This gift will enable us to restore and update Mayfield so that JBU can continue to provide an excellent residential experience for women on campus, an experience that encourages them to develop intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually,” Dr. Chip Pollard, JBU president, said in a statement. “We are deeply grateful to the Windgate Foundation for this generous challenge grant.”

The renovation to the 247-bed facility is expected to begin in spring 2017 and be completed by summer 2018. JBU will rebuild each of the resident rooms with high-efficiency LED lighting, sound-resistant construction, sinks, and new, modular furniture, which will allow residents to maximize and personalize their room. The renovation also includes: new bathrooms and plumbing; new furniture, equipment and décor for all of the common areas; a new HVAC system; and a modern fire suppression system.

Originally opened in 1964, the hall had one major addition in 1978 — the construction of a new wing increasing bed capacity by 100.

The project is part of JBU’s $125 million Campaign for the Next Century, which is scheduled for completion in 2019 during the university’s centennial. With this gift, JBU has received over $78 million in gifts and pledges toward its $125 million goal.