As the beginning of the new academic year approaches, so, too, does construction of Acadia’s Wu Welcome Centre at Alumni Hall. Announced in November, 2013, as Acadia launched its 175^th Anniversary year celebrations, the Wu Welcome Centre is a generous gift to the University from the Wu Jieh Yee Foundation, under the auspices of Dr. Wu’s children Lily (’63), Doris (’64), and Timothy (’66). Lily’s husband, Dr. Andre Lau (’61) is also an Acadia graduate. The $1.5 million, 3,600 square foot two-story addition to Alumni Hall recently received unanimous approval from Wolfville’s Town Council -- during the approval process, the design was praised by community members for its faithfulness to the character of the original building.

With construction imminent, Acadia celebrated with a ceremonial groundbreaking during the 2014 Summer Reunion Weekend, on the site of the new Wu Welcome Centre (pictured below).

The Wu Welcome Centre will feature a reception area, large multi-purpose meeting space, and offices for Acadia staff who regularly meet with alumni, supporters and prospective students. In addition, discussions are currently under way about potential collaboration with the Town of Wolfville to maximize the benefit and impact of the Centre. With some renovations to historic Alumni Hall also in hand, the entire building will have a new and updated feel. The Wu Welcome Centre will provide a spectacular setting for receptions, reunions, Homecoming, and a wide range of events for students and prospective students.

While construction is underway, Alumni Hall staff will be temporarily relocated to offices across campus. Alumni staff location listing.

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Photo cutline: Pictured from left to right: Doug Jackson (‘99), President of the Associated Alumni of Acadia University; Wolfville Deputy Mayor David Mangle ; Chancellor Libby Burnham (’60); Suzanne Gray, Vice President Communications, Acadia Students’ Union; Dr.  Rod Morrison, Vice President Advancement; and Dr. Robert Perrins, Vice President Academic.