Chaminade University celebrated the completion of its newest renovation project, Clarence T.C. Ching Hall, on Nov. 10.

“The renovations are great! It really gives our school a warm and welcoming feel, and I am so fortunate to go to such a beautiful school,” said Kahiau McKeague, a senior at CUH.

Chaminade welcomed the Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation in honor of a $5 million grant used to renovate the building. More than 15,000 square feet of Ching Hall was newly designed. The renovations included redesigns of the classrooms, advising office, career preparation office, student support center, campus ministry, financial aid, student activities, and the Freitas Administration Center. The offices and added conference rooms have truly met the expectations of the renovations.

“We are extremely grateful for the Foundation’s support. This grant came at a critical time. We are not only able to make much needed repairs, but also to make major upgrades, which has ensured the University’s sustainability,” Brother Bernard Ploeger, Chaminade president, said in a statement. The “much needed repairs” refer to the termite infestations and water-damaged roof.

Before the dedication, the trustees of the Clarence T.C. Ching Foundation and administration were taken for a private blessing throughout Ching Hall. The ceremonial blessing was presented by Father George Cerniglia and Kumu Keahi Renaud assisted by Logan Henderson.

“You can truly sense the positive feel and almost palpable potential for fresh and strong policies with bold proposals, particularly on the top floor,” said Kumu Keahi.

Trustees of the Ching Foundation, faculty, and members of the community gathered under the tents near Ching Hall to begin the dedication. Diane Peters-Nguyen, vice president of the Institutional Advancements, opened the dedication by introducing the trustees of the Ching Foundation and members of the Chaminade community.

After the opening speeches, student-led tours of Ching Hall were given to guests and refreshments were available in the Vi and Paul Loo Student Center.

“I’ve seen the renovations and remain impressed with the extent and breadth of the changes.  There are wonderful open spaces and a flow of space which will allow for a clear movement of  ideas. Also, there are very spacious meeting rooms, which seems to foster a collective of consensus of concepts,” said Renaud.

Throughout the night, musical entertainment was provided by George Kuo and Aaron Mahi followed by a performance by the Chaminade Hawaiian Club, Ka Ipu Kukui Me Ka ‘Ie ‘Ie.