Goodrich Hall Bell Tower Featured in Register-Guard

EUGENE, Ore. – The construction of Bushnell University’s Goodrich Hall bell tower was featured in the Eugene Register-Guard’s “What’s That Construction?” column. This spotlight features the efforts of Bushnell’s Venture Forward capital campaign, a three-year project to expand the campus capacity for a growing student population. A key pillar of the campaign involves revitalizing the iconic 115-year-old building in the heart of campus.  

Read the full story by Ben Lonergan here. 

Dr. Keith Potter ’84, D.D. (hon) ’11, Vice President for University Advancement, reflected on the project, saying, “When I attended the school nearly 40 years ago, Goodrich Hall seemed old and a bit outdated. … We’re thankful to be able to give this old building a bright, long future.” 

The Goodrich Hall renovation project is both a restoration and a reimagining of the building. The centerpiece of this endeavor is the construction of a four-story bell tower, a critical addition that will provide essential infrastructure.  The project’s mission is to preserve the historical significance of Goodrich Hall while simultaneously equipping it with cutting-edge facilities and resources to support the evolving needs of the Bushnell community. 

The new bell tower, which will connect to the southwest corner of Goodrich Hall, will incorporate elevators, stairs, and restrooms on every floor, enhancing accessibility and convenience. Additionally, modern heating and ventilation systems will be installed. The first two floors will be dedicated to classroom space, while the third floor will house the President’s Office and University Advancement facilities. 

Gene De Young, MBA, Vice President for Finance and Administration and CFO, provided insight into the project, stating, “It’s a full renovation to capture and make those spaces truly habitable in the current century. It just further enhances and brings that building back to full use.” De Young emphasized that “we’re gonna embrace the history and the heritage of that building and bring it back to life.” This sentiment underscores the university’s dedication to preserving its rich heritage while also creating a vibrant future. 

The project began in May 2022 and is expected to be completed by August 2024, in time for the start of the new academic year. 

To learn more about the Goodrich Hall restoration project and Bushnell’s Venture Forward campaign, see here: Venture Forward – Bushnell University Campaign.