Dominican Heritage and Alumni House
A new life for our beloved Edgehill Mansion
Past and Future
Constructed in 1887, Edgehill is Dominican University of California's oldest surviving structure, and it holds special memories for Dominican alumni. On August 30, 1920, the first Dominican students moved into the newly acquired Edgehill house, and over the next 65 years this lovely, Queen Anne style mansion operated first as a residence and dining hall and later as classrooms, offices, and the Garden School.
Edgehill has stood empty since 1985 when, for structural reasons, the building was closed to the public. On November 1, 2007, the Dominican University of California Board of Trustees unanimously approved a plan to restore Edgehill. Imagine a transformation of this historic venue into a celebration of the University's heritage, a vibrant center of student life, a place of worship, and a welcoming home for Dominican alumni. This is the potential of Edgehill today.
Restoration Concept
The mansion's three levels present an opportunity to address a unique set of University needs under one roof. The restoration plans are designed to preserve the historical features and elegance of the house, while bringing the facility up to current safety and ADA requirements.
On the first floor, the house's original Catholic chapel, seating approximately 130, will be
restored in accordance with Archdiocesan guidelines.
The St. Catherine Benincasa Chapel, as it will be known, will become the central space for Catholic worship on campus. The Veritas Room, an interfaith worship space, will be adjacent to the chapel. The ground floor also will feature a reservation chapel to house the Holy Eucharist and provide a place for quiet meditation.
Also on the first floor will the be Heritage and Legacy Halls, showcasing treasures from the University's archives and providing ample public space for receptions, lectures, and meetings.
The second floor will house the professionals who work in student services, including the offices of campus ministry, student government, residence life, and student support services.
The third floor will be home to the Office of Alumni Relations, providing, in essence, the alumni house that the University has never had.
Edgehill's exterior will be brought back to life with new and restored siding and trim, a new roof, fresh paint, landscaping, fresh pavement, and enhancements to the building to match the character of the original home.
Fundraising
The restoration of Edgehill will cost an estimated $6 million. The University's Trustees have made an early commitment of more than $300,000 with an additional challenge grant of $200,000 if the alumni association can raise $500,000 by December 31, 2007. Additionally, if alumni can raise a total of $1.5 million over the course of the campaign, the University will match this amount from its own funds. Construction could begin as early as summer 2008.
To make your gift to the campaign, click here, or contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 415-485-3242.
Edgehill Fundraising Committee
Charles I. Daniels, Jr.
James Deitz, Chair
Mary Helen Power Fairchild '48
Mary Daneri Grandin '50
Carly Hoffman '06
Eric Hughes '07
Robin Keating '80
Donna Zander Kelleher '58
Sheila Doyle Kiernan '48
Heidi Kuhn
John Kuhr '86
Joan Guess Latno '52
Sister M. Patricia Lyons, O.P. '37, Honorary Chair
Genevieve Murphy Moore '81
Teresa Bannan Nally '54
Iris Campodonico Pera '58
Sister Marie Sagues, O.P. '51
John Savant '66
