Generations of Johnson Hall residents — along with friends, family, current students and NWU employees — gathered in front of the 66-year-old all-female residence hall on October 20 to reflect on the many memories that have touched their lives.

Sherry White, for example, recalled her days living on the third floor of the red brick building. Even more vivid are the memories she has of house mother Miss Eberhart. White frequently worried about violating curfew so to avoid any confrontations with Miss Eberhart, White made sure her future husband, Bill, would bring her back to Johnson Hall an hour early from their dates.

The Whites — along with their daughter and son-in-law who are also NWU alums — cut the big yellow ribbon that spanned the front entrance of Johnson Hall to celebrate a $1.9 million renovation.

“We honor those members of our Nebraska Wesleyan community who established this hall more than 60 years ago, the pioneering students who first called this beautiful building home, the bright students who live here today, and the generous alumni and friends whose support of the Johnson Hall Endowment will ensure this building continues to stand tall for generations to come,” President Fred Ohles told the audience.

While doors to the renovated residence hall opened in August, alumni and friends attending the homecoming rededication were among some of the first visitors to see the enhancements.

The renovation included remodeling of all interior spaces, expansion of restrooms, new roof and windows, new furniture, handicap accessibility, elevator access to all four floors, and perhaps the biggest change — air conditioning. Johnson Hall was the only remaining residence hall on campus without air conditioning.

Efforts to raise funds for the preservation of Johnson Hall continue. To date, 80 donors have contributed to the Johnson Hall Preservation Project, which will maintain the building for future generations. A number of naming opportunities are available for Johnson Hall lounges, computer labs, and resident rooms.

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