Thanks for the Memories, Sage Union

For many of you, there are parts of the Adrian campus that are “sacred spaces.” Maybe it’s Trinity Garden with its majestic and spectacular magnolia trees in full bloom.

Or the magnificent stained glass-adorned St. Dominic (formerly Lumen Ecclesiae) Chapel during a reverential Torch Night ceremony.

For our more recent graduates, maybe it’s the coziness of the McLaughlin University Center living room with its welcoming fireplace.

Unfortunately, it’s time to say good-bye to another space considered to be sacred by many: Sage Union. Originally named Walsh Hall when constructed in 1923, this facility was once “The Hub” of campus. For decades, it was the gathering place for theater and music events. In fact, the main floor was legendary for its acoustical excellence. Commencement ceremonies were conducted there for decades, and many early athletic events were hosted in the basement gymnasium.

For the Adrian Dominican Sisters, many received their annual mission appointments in Sage, which was an occasion of joy for some, and sadness for others.

Over the years, it evolved into a student union, once housing the University bookstore. And as of late, it served as office space for several departments and organizations on campus. Up until the construction of the new Spencer Performing Arts Center, which officially opened in August, the basement of Sage also functioned as the band room.

But Sage’s time has come. We have pursued many opportunities and considered a host of options to try and reinvent Sage Union. In the meantime, nearly 100 years of use and the elements have taken its toll. What made Sage such a unique and distinctive building is also one of its downfalls: the seven-level structure is nearly impossible to make handicap accessible without a sizeable expense to the University. In fact, our construction partners have told us that reengineering the building would cost significantly more than constructing a brand new facility.

So the decision was made to take down Sage this summer. The work was recently completed and I’ve been assured that a beautiful new space will be created that will high-light Trinity Garden and open the University up to a whole new range of possibilities.

I realize this is not a popular decision for some who hold dear memories of Sage and what it represented during their time on campus. However, as someone who tries to be a good steward of Siena Heights’ resources, please understand this was not a decision made in haste. In truth, the fate of Sage has been a debate on our campus for several years, and one of the most difficult of my presidency.

But it had to be made. And I believe it is the right one. Sometimes to look to the future, you have to let go of the past. Thanks for the memories, Sage Union.

To see more pictures of Sage through the years, click here. To see see demolition pictures of Sage, click here.
To see a time lapse video of the razing of Sage, click here.

Sister Peg Albert, OP, PhD
President