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By Jill Spotz
Family Weekend served as the backdrop for members of the Lafayette community to celebrate the dedication of two renovated spaces on campus—Schwartz-Schoor Plaza and Houldin Walk. Located behind Hogg Hall, the new plaza and entrance to the campus have been transformed into stunning areas. The renovated spaces are named for their benefactors, Lawrence Schwartz ’62 P’88 GP’21, Howard Schoor ’61 P’84 GP’22, and the Houldin family, all of whom were present at the dedication Sept. 29.
Schwartz-Schoor Plaza features outdoor seating, bluestone paving, and a granite-veneer wall. The wall includes an excerpt from the College’s charter as well as the phrase “Cur Non,” which honors the Marquis de Lafayette.
“Lafayette alumni consider themselves family because of the ideals of the Marquis de Lafayette,” said Schwartz during his remarks. “To quote author and historian Marc Leepson, ‘His ideals proved to be the founding principles of two of the most enduring nations, the United States and France. That is a legacy that few politicians or statesmen can match.”’ Schwartz and Schoor have remained lifelong friends since their time on College Hill, which prompted their decision to support their alma mater together both in honor of their friendship and of Lafayette. “I always believed that Lafayette played a significant role in my life’s accomplishments,” says Schoor. “It is the reason why I give back.”
Additionally, Houldin Walk, the entrance to campus from March Street, now features a visually pleasing gateway with updated paving and landscaping. The walk is named in honor of the Houldin family, whose legacy at the College spans many generations. During his remarks, William Houldin III ’15 spoke about his family’s longstanding connection to Lafayette. “Our family’s relationship with the school spans four generations, and we could not be more grateful for the solid life foundation that Lafayette College has provided to us.” The addition of the new Houldin Walk offers a unified entrance from March Street and serves as a testament to the family’s ongoing commitment to their alma mater.
“As students walk through the Houldin Gateway and progress along the Houldin Walk to campus, or when faculty, students, or visitors enjoy the peace and beauty of the Schwartz-Schoor Plaza, they will be reminded that Lafayette is more than just a place,” said President Alison Byerly. “It is a network of people whose involvement and philanthropy enhances the Lafayette experience for current and future generations of students.”
Schwartz-Schoor Plaza and Houldin Walk represent a small portion of the new and renovated spaces that have been transformed and have elevated the quality of campus life as a result of the Live Connected, Lead Change campaign.
