Construction of Sedgwick Project To Begin Soon

After securing all but nearly $1 million of the expected $23 million cost, Rockhurst University will begin construction on the renovation of a campus cornerstone, Sedgwick Hall, into the future home of the Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences at Rockhurst University.

Having reached this fundraising milestone, work is expected to begin some time within the next two weeks on the project, led by lead architect Helix and general contractor JE Dunn. The renovation will preserve approximately 90% of the building’s original construction. Features in the completed building will include the addition of a glass façade on the side of the building facing the Kinerk Commons, a state-of-the-art simulation center, and a 100-person learning studio that can be subdivided into two 50-person classrooms and used as an event space. Upon completion, the project will result in 38,228 square feet of finished space and 21,116 square feet of shell space to accommodate future development. Construction is expected to be completed in late spring 2022, possibly allowing us to move in August 2022.

“This is truly a historic moment,” said the Rev. Thomas B. Curran, S.J., University president. “Sedgwick Hall was the first building on the Rockhurst University campus, and through the generosity of our donors, it will continue providing an inclusive, transformative, innovative Jesuit education for generations of Rockhurst students to come.”

The project could mean construction traffic around the building’s footprint that could affect pedestrian paths, some noise resulting from the work, and potential temporary parking restrictions along Troost Avenue near the site during the project. University officials will continue to share information as available with the community.

The start of construction also means that in January 2021, the University will officially enter “For the Greater,” the public phase of its campaign, to raise the remaining funds. Those with questions should contact Mary Mooney Burns, vice president for University advancement, at mary.burns@rockhurst.edu.