Silver Lake College has long been known for offering a warm welcome to anyone who walks through its doors. That warmth is even more in evidence thanks to a recently completed major renovation made possible by a gift of $300,000 from Mike and Mimi Ariens of Brillion.
“Silver Lake College students, faculty, staff and visitors will experience true Franciscan hospitality thanks to their gift, for which the entire college community is truly grateful,” said Dr. Chris Domes, President of Silver Lake College. The remodeled space, located inside the main entrance of Main Hall, features the Ariens Family Welcome Center and provides a central location for the registrar, financial aid office, and business office. Prospective students and their families will be welcomed by the Admissions Department, newly relocated just within the main entrance area. Visitors may learn about studies in the more than 25 academic disciplines in the schools of Education, Liberal Arts and Professional Studies in the four-year, private liberal arts setting founded on the Catholic Franciscan tradition.
In addition, the new space will serve as an inviting entrance to the recently remodeled Heritage Room, which features a pictorial history of the relationship between Silver Lake College and the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, who sponsor the college. The campus will enjoy the community space afforded by Mimi’s Café, a meeting and social area that includes a gift shop featuring Silver Lake College merchandise.
A dedication ceremony for the renovated space was held Dec. 5, with Bishop Robert Morneau, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Green Bay, leading the blessing. As Silver Lake commemorates its 80th anniversary in 2015, the Welcome Center affirms the college’s ongoing commitment to growth and community in the Catholic Franciscan tradition.