This fall, Edgewood College announced the acquisition of property in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, that will become the new home for Eagle athletics, student recreation and wellness, and more. The site, which covers 40 acres, is formerly part of the O’Brien family farm.
“We are deeply grateful to the O’Brien family for their partnership and for their steadfast commitment to the community of Fitchburg, and to their vision for the students at Edgewood College,” President An- drew Manion said. Initial plans for the property, which have been approved by Fitchburg and Dane County, include the restoration of native wetlands, which will become a learning laboratory for future students.
Margaret O’Brien, O.P., ’70, MA ’94, is a cousin who has visited the farm and her extended family over the course of generations. A longtime member of the faculty at Edgewood College who is now retired, Sr. Margaret offered this blessing for the occasion:
“Gracious God, never did I dream I would be back on this soil with my love for Edgewood College as a close companion. Today is truly a day to recall and instill the Dominican values of truth, justice, compassion, community, and partnership. May this facility be a safe place, with understanding and acceptance of all races and religions.
May this land which has given birth to many crops continue to give new ways of growth in the field of athletics, health and wellness, and education. May it be a place of discovery where the clay of souls created in the image of our God emerge for all that is yet to come to birth. May this land shelter and enrich many new lives. May students, athletes, faculty, staff, and many others come here to find a new facility filled with energy and the pursuit of lifetime dreams. May it be a continued place of rest and peace. Amen.”