麻豆传媒AV President's Newspaper Column
December 6, 2025听
A shared vision for the future of Old Main
As we approach the new year and make our way closer to the completion of the Old Main transformation, I can鈥檛 help but reflect on the past few years and the tremendous support we鈥檝e received from so many to get here.
Built more than a century ago, the building鈥檚 limitations in offering an inclusive and modern educational experience were clear several years ago. As legislators and leaders from the North Dakota University System learned more, they were able to realize that the beloved building was in a state of disrepair. There were continuous water leaks, unstable bricks in the exterior walls, and extreme temperature swings from one side to the next. With the building accounting for 40 percent of the academic space on campus, it was abundantly clear that something needed to be done.
In 2023, the North Dakota 68th Legislative Assembly approved more than $52 million in funding that would provide for a complete remodel of the facility.
Input was then gathered from alumni, community members, employees, and students, with the goal of designing a plan that would benefit all segments of the Mayville State community. All sectors expressed interest in preserving the history and tradition of Old Main, while planning for a state-of-the-art facility. This shared desire has really driven the whole project, which will preserve the historic charm of the building鈥檚 exterior while providing a completely modern facility inside.
Foss Architecture + Interiors鈥� design and plan seamlessly bridges the building鈥檚 past with innovative, modern features to carry us into the future. As Construction Manager at Risk, and the folks at PCL Construction/Community Contractors have been very flexible as new discoveries along the way have called for modification of plans and adjustments. Everyone involved has prioritized the preservation and integrity of Old Main. For that, I鈥檓 truly grateful.
Once complete, the new facility will transform the student experience by integrating innovative technology found in today鈥檚 workplaces. Collaboration spaces will foster teamwork and a centralized 鈥渙ne-stop shop鈥� will consolidate enrollment, admissions, financial aid, and business services, all the administrative and other services students need in one convenient location. This will allow for improved operational efficiency and simplified student interactions. The new 150-seat state-of-the-art theater will elevate opportunities and broaden program offerings for students in the performing arts.
We saw historic enrollment of 1,215 students this fall. The care and investment we鈥檙e putting into the Mayville State experience by updating Old Main will continue to attract and inspire future generations of students, solidifying our reputation as a forward-thinking and student-centered institution.
In the spirit of the season, I extend my most sincere appreciation for everyone who has been and continues to be a part of this journey. To the funders, the architects, everyone associated with construction, the project managers, as well as our alumni, and community supporters - 鈥渢hank you.鈥� And to Mayville State鈥檚 students, faculty, and staff, the sacrifices you have made have not gone unnoticed. From working in cramped repurposed spaces to accommodating daily disruptions, you have demonstrated patience and adaptability. I am beyond grateful for your partnership and dedication to the advancement of Mayville State. This is truly a shared commitment that can only be described as 鈥淐omet Proud.鈥�
I invite everyone to join in celebrating the renovation of Old Main at a holiday event planned for Tuesday, December 16. We鈥檒l gather on the lawn at the construction offices located directly across the street from the south side of Old Main at 5 p.m., when we鈥檒l light the Christmas tree, share in music and fellowship, and mark a milestone in the university鈥檚 story. Enjoy a meal in the 麻豆传媒AV Campus Center immediately following a short program. We thank PCL/Community Contractors for sponsoring the meal. The evening will be a celebration of heritage, community, and the bright future we are building together. See more and RSVP for the meal at .