The Edson and Margaret Larson Foundation has recently given a gift of $340,000 that will finish the Mayville State University foundation project to save historic Northwest Hall, located on the Mayville State campus, and turn it into a first class alumni center. The announcement was made at a Homecoming 2012 gathering held Saturday, October 13. Pending state approval, Northwest Hall will be named “Edson & Margaret Larson Alumni and Leadership Center.”

Northwest Hall was built in 1911 as an infirmary for sick students. The building has served a number of purposes over the years, including the college president’s home, dormitory space, and married student housing. Now the brick structure will be completely renovated for us as a new home for Mayville State University alumni, and a place where alumni can meet and “come home.”

Plans for some beautiful and meaningful landscaping projects are being paired with the building rehabilitation plans. Former Mayville State librarian and dorm mother Clenora Quanbeck will be honored with a garden area that bears her namesake, the Quanbeck Memorial and Library Honor Garden. Many alumni and friends contributed financially to the project, exceeding fundraising goals. Another garden area will honor the military. The Northwest Hall Military Honor Landscape Project will be located at the north side of the Edson & Margaret Larson Alumni and Leadership Center, and will be a tribute to those who have served or are serving in America’s armed forces. A number of donations have already been received, but additional donations are needed.

“November 11, Veterans Day, is an important time for all to reflect, pay honor and respect, and remember those who have fought bravely for the American ideals of freedom and justice throughout the world,” said Mayville State graduate Doug Anderson, Northwest Hall rehabilitation project volunteer. “In doing so, families are encouraged to remember their loved ones who have served, or are serving, with a gift to the Northwest Hall Military Honor Landscape Project.”

When finished, the military honor landscape project will feature a sculpture of the American bald eagle set on field stone. The bronze, life-sized eagle in flight will complement the flag pole which once stood atop Mayville State’s Old Main. At the base of the sculpture, a plaque will read “In honor of Mayville State faculty, students, and friends who have proudly served.” Memory markers representing those who fought in world wars and memorial gardens planted in honor of loved ones will round out the details. The goal is to honor all who have or are serving in the military, those who have attended Mayville State, and those who have not.

The fundraising goal for the project is $20,000, and so far a total of $9,740 has been raised. Contributions may be sent to MSU Foundation, Northwest Hall Military Honor Landscape Project, 330 Third Street NE, Mayville, N.D.  58257. For more information, contact the MSU Foundation at 701-788-4687 or michelle.mclean@mayvillestate.edu.