Strake Jesuit Students Welcome Loyola Hall

On the first day of the spring semester, Strake Jesuit College Preparatory’s students welcomed a new building, Loyola Hall. After only one year of construction, the school’s new main building has been completed and opened for daily use. 

On January 6, Strake Jesuit’s president, Father Jeff Johnson, gave a speech to the students to open the new facility. He spoke about the features of the building and how it will have a positive impact on the community at Strake Jesuit. Father Johnson said, “See in this gift some reflection of the gift God gives you every day – the gifts of friendship, love, and life.” Students were then able to tour the building for the first time.

After a few weeks of getting familiar with Loyola Hall, students have talked about how the new building has already enhanced their education experience. 

Strake Jesuit junior Kade Richardson commented, “The new building has been great. I really enjoy all of the space there is to use during free periods and community time. The building is a perfect addition to the campus.” Another junior, Colin Fernandez, said, “The best part of the new building has to be the desks. They are very mobile and adjustable, which allows the classes to be easily arranged any way, instead of just rows. This gives the classes a more engaging atmosphere.”

Loyola Hall now serves as the main entrance to the school. It is a three-story building that contains new areas for students, faculty, and staff. The first floor consists of classrooms, student commons, a reception area, the Dean’s office, the admissions office, and faculty offices. The second floor is comprised of classrooms, academic and personal counseling offices, and the social studies department. The third floor has classrooms, administrative offices, a large conference room, and a terrace that looks over the rest of the campus. 

This building was made possible due to $4.5 million donation to the school from Robert Clay, a Strake 1985 graduate.