Villanova University - Belle Air Yearbook (Villanova, PA)

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erected $350,000 Auditorium-Gymnasium was formally opened. The annual Inter-Fraternity Ball and the Shakespearian paro- dies were the inaugural functions, making the opening of the structure a very impressive one. Villanova owes thanks to the Villanova Literary Society, especially the society's Belle Masque Chapter, for enacting these parodies in a manner worthy of such a beautiful building. Again on June 7, the Fathers had cause to rejoice, for the Very Rev. Dr. Joseph A. Hickey, O.S.A., Assistant General of the Augustinian Order, formally and solemnly dedicated the gigantic edifice as pan of the Com- mencement Day ceremonies. The summer saw a severe blow dealt the Order. The Monastery and part of Good Counsel Hall fell prey to devas- tating Vulcan and a $500,000 loss greeted the newly appointed administration, headed by Very Rev. Edward V. Stanford, O.S.A., president: Rev. Bernard M. Albers, O.S.A., vice-pres- ident, and Rev. Charles A. Melchior, O.S.A., procurator. The new officers faced this catastrophe as those who had gone before them had faced similar situations, and shouldered their burdens courageously with the determination to carry on where their predecessors had left off. At the present time, after the Monastery has remained in ruins for almost one year because the Order lacked sufficient funds to rebuild immediately, the Fathers have commenced their task of erecting a newer and finer structure, which exemplifies their tireless efforts and of which they may always be proud. When we realize that the Fathers have devoted their lives to Villanova, in order to raise its standard to a pedestal equal to and above many other great colleges in the country, their sacrifices, the unselfish, unrewarded years, and their unceasing efforts expended in this cause, this rebuilding program merits the highest of praise and wc cannot but cherish an increased admiration for them. According to the plans that have been announced, the new building will differ from the former structure in that the architecture will be modeled along better lines. A collcgiate-Gothic building will result, three stories in height, and fire-proof throughout. The edifice will be of stone and limestone, 208 feet in length, 54 feet in width, with the wing being 42 feet by 65 feet. Thus, we take our leave of Villanova and her treasured halls, and we, who are leaving her perhaps never to return, take a last fond look and cannot help but shed a tear in fare- well. To the administration we extend our congratulations for the superb work accom- plished during the past year, and especially in their rebuilding venture. May the new Monas- tery be as imposing a building as all of Villa- nova's campus structure. We hope that the Fathers will continue to carry on, ever for- ward, ever onward, and raise Villanova's proud name to an ever higher plane. Monastery Fire. 19J2 Catastrophe Fourteen

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Full of long-sounding corridors it was. That oi er-vaulted grateful gloom. Through which the life-long day my soul did pass. Well-pleased, from room to room.