CCU celebrates grand opening of Atheneum Hall Alumni Center
By Jerry Rashid
Billy Alford ’77, former chairman of the Coastal Carolina University Board of Trustees, spoke on many occasions about his desire to secure a dedicated home for alumni on campus. He attended Coastal at a time when Atheneum Hall was the hub of all student activity. He never gave up on his dream of an alumni center in Atheneum Hall, so it was truly fitting that the grand opening of the Atheneum Hall Alumni Center on April 30 was held in the building’s newly named William H. Alford Ballroom.
Wyatt Henderson ’98, current board chairman, remarked that since opening its doors in 1966, Atheneum Hall, in many ways, has served as Coastal’s front porch.
“The impressive structure that stands just outside this room proudly welcomes students, alumni and guests to campus,” Henderson said. “It also serves as the University symbol and is held near and dear in the hearts of all Coastal alumni. It is truly an inspiration for our entire campus.” Henderson was referencing the 21-foot high Greek symbol that stands on the building’s patio.
President David A. DeCenzo said the day marked another exciting dedication on the University’s ever-growing campus. When he was preparing his remarks, he said his mind wandered off to a time when the original structure was first built and how it served as the heart of Coastal and stood for all the good that represented the University.
“I still have to wonder what our original founders would say if they could see Coastal Carolina University today and the bright future that it holds,” DeCenzo said.
Brian Forbus ’97, president of Coastal’s Alumni Association Board of Directors, added that the new Atheneum Hall Alumni Center has been an important initiative of the alumni board for the last 10 years. Its completion is a direct result of the dedication and hard work of numerous people.
The ceremony recognized the many alumni and friends who played a role in this important revitalization project as well as those who financially supported the Daniel P. Sine Lobby, Pi Kappa Phi Patio and Veterans Hall. The facility also features the Alumni Lifetime Donors Wall and special bricks – engraved with the names of alumni and friends of the University – on the walkway leading up to the Atheneum.
Eddie Dyer, executive vice president and chief operating officer, closed the ceremony by saying, “I offer a toast to a productive past and to a dynamic future for this building and for this institution. May our Creator continue to bless us.”
When it was first built, Atheneum Hall was the home of Coastal’s original student union and cafeteria. Through the years, it also has served as a theater, the fine arts building and the location of several administrative departments.
Once the renovation of the Singleton Building is finished, the Office of Alumni Relations will be permanently headquartered in the Atheneum Hall Alumni Center so it can truly welcome the more than 25,000 Coastal alumni back to their alma mater. The center will host many types of events for alumni, students and the University community. Jean Ann Brakefield ’84, director of alumni relations, said she envisions weddings, banquets, reunions and other celebrations that will allow alumni to return to campus as often as possible.
