When our good friend and alumnus Mark Girolamo ’71 introduced our newest initiative, the Sr. Janet Meehan Student Fitness Center, nearly two years ago, we had no idea of the outpouring of love for Sr. Janet and support for the project that we would receive from alumni. For many, this is the first time they are reaching back to their alma mater, either in the form of their financial support or sharing their anecdotes about Sr. Janet, or both. We are also pleased that many from our community, even those who did not have the chance to meet Sr. Janet, recognize the importance of this project as a true asset for our students.
As a school, we commit to forming the Mind, Body and Spirit of our students, and the Sr. Janet Meehan Student Fitness Center will help fortify the Body tenet of our mission. We would like to think she would be humbled by this outpouring of love and support for this project, which has been extraordinary. However, there have been some hurdles to jump over.
Costs of materials are growing at an unprecedented rate, one that shocked our committee members and stakeholders. This project was initially estimated to cost about $1.2 million, but we now find that the latest estimates are closer to $1.5 million, and these numbers increase every 60 days as the prices of construction material increase. As of the start of this school year, we raised approximately $1,000,000 thanks to the generosity of over 350 Kennedy parents, alumni, friends, and corporate partners. This $1 million is enough to start the construction phase of the building. With our professional partner, architect Mr. Paul Checco, AIA, we have awarded the contract to a builder and broke ground.
However, we still need help getting the final $500,000 in funds that will allow us to bridge the gap due to the increased construction costs, and to purchase the state-of-the-art exercise and training equipment needed to fill this grand building. With well over 70 classes of KCPS and St. Mary’s grads out there, this additional $500,000 is achievable. We greatly appreciate gifts of any size. The Sr. Janet Meehan Student Fitness Center will greatly benefit our Gaels as individuals, as members of athletic teams, and as young adults establishing lifelong healthy habits.
If you would like to donate or participate in helping us close the gap between building and completing this project, please contact Fred Compton, Director of Advancement, at [email protected] or go to www.kennedycatholic.org/fitness-center/. Thank you again for all you do to help us advance the cause of Catholic education and ensure that our young people achieve their dreams. GO GAELS!!