By 1808Delaware
Ohio Wesleyan University is once again redefining what a liberal arts education can be. Through two transformative gifts totaling $15 million, the university is creating the Smith Center for Faculty Excellence and the Palmer Center for First-Generation Student Success—both to be housed within the reimagined John F. Milligan Library. Together, these initiatives blend intellectual ambition with social purpose, affirming OWU’s growing reputation as a national leader in rethinking how institutions can best serve both faculty and students.
A New Chapter for Ohio Wesleyan
Milligan Library Project Pairs Fine Arts with Faculty and Student Success
At Ohio Wesleyan University, the latest groundbreaking was more than a construction milestone—it marked a turning point for how the liberal arts campus will foster both scholarship and belonging. On October 3, President Matt vandenBerg joined donors, faculty, and students to celebrate the start of work on the John F. Milligan Library and announce $15 million in new gifts creating two transformative academic centers.
When complete in early 2027, the Milligan Library will stand as a hub for learning, creativity, and collaboration. It will include the university’s Department of Fine Arts along with the newly established Smith Center for Faculty Excellence and the Palmer Center for First-Generation Student Success—two initiatives that embody the spirit of mentorship and innovation at the heart of the Ohio Wesleyan experience.
Investing in Faculty Excellence
A $10 million commitment from Katherine Boles Smith, Class of 1971, and her husband, Alton Smith, will establish the Smith Center for Faculty Excellence. The center will expand on the university’s existing Center for Teaching, Learning, and Innovation, launched in 2024, by supporting faculty development at an unprecedented scale.
“Ohio Wesleyan professors equip our students well with the knowledge and skills to succeed professionally,” said Katherine Smith, a life trustee. “They teach students to think critically and handle academic challenges thoughtfully and rigorously.”
Early priorities for the Smith Center include helping faculty mentor students in the use of generative artificial intelligence. Over time, the center will produce white papers, host institutes, and showcase faculty research and teaching innovations.
President vandenBerg called the Smith Center “a distinction-defining investment” that strengthens both faculty and students. “The Smith Center resets the standard,” he said.
Supporting First-Generation Students
A $5 million gift from Thomas Palmer, Class of 1969, and his wife, Susan Palmer, honorary Class of 2023, will launch the Palmer Center for First-Generation Student Success and help fund the Milligan Library renovation. The new center builds on OWU’s Bishop Elevate program, established in 2023, and provides a dedicated space where first-generation students can find guidance, community, and practical support.
“Susan and I are grateful for the opportunity to help OWU continue to make a positive and distinctive difference,” said Tom Palmer, a member of the Board of Trustees. “Our goal is to help first-generation students not only succeed academically but thrive personally and professionally.”
The center will be led by Thea Smekens, who said the Palmers’ gift will have a lasting impact. “For first-generation students, having a dedicated space on campus is a powerful affirmation that they belong here,” she said.
The Milligan Library Vision
The transformation of OWU’s main library into the John F. Milligan Library is made possible by $50 million in donor contributions, including a lead $20 million gift from John and Kathryn Bradford Milligan, both Class of 1983. The reimagined space will include art galleries, high-tech classrooms, studios, and gathering areas designed to encourage collaboration and creativity.
As vandenBerg told the crowd, “Today’s event is groundbreaking in so many ways. Ohio Wesleyan is transforming higher education to meet students where they are and support them in their journey of self-discovery, civic engagement, and lifelong success.”
For more information about supporting Ohio Wesleyan’s initiatives, visit owu.edu/give.
Source: OWU; Image: Ohio Wesleyan breaks ground Oct. 3 for the John F. Milligan Library renovation and announces creation of both the Smith Center for Faculty Excellence and the Palmer Center for First-Generation Student Success. The centers will be located side by side in the new library when it reopens in 2027. (Photo by Paul Vernon)
