McGaw Chapel

McGaw Chapel is a prominent interdenominational chapel located on the campus of Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. Dedicated in 1955, it serves as a central venue for university ceremonies, religious services, musical performances, and lectures. The chapel is named for Foster G. McGaw, a noted philanthropist and founder of the American Hospital Supply Corporation, whose generosity made its construction possible.

History

The impetus for constructing a new chapel at Northwestern University grew in the post-World War II era, as the existing Patten Gymnasium proved inadequate for large university gatherings. A fundraising campaign was launched, significantly aided by a major gift from Foster G. McGaw and his wife, Mary. The chapel was designed by the renowned architectural firm Perkins&Will, led by partner Lawrence B. Anderson, and construction commenced in the early 1950s. It was formally dedicated on October 2, 1955, in a ceremony that included addresses by Northwestern University President J. Roscoe Miller and noted theologian Paul Tillich. Over the decades, it has hosted memorial services for university figures, including former president Robert H. Strotz, and has been a consistent site for commemorating national events such as the September 11 attacks.

Architecture and design

McGaw Chapel is a distinguished example of mid-20th century Modern architecture, characterized by clean lines, functional design, and the use of contemporary materials. The exterior is clad in Indiana limestone and features a prominent square bell tower that rises 100 feet, becoming a recognizable landmark on the Northwestern University campus. The interior is designed to be both intimate and grand, with a nave that seats approximately 1,200 individuals. Notable design elements include a large stained-glass window behind the chancel, created by artist Robert Sowers, which abstracts themes of creation and spirit. The chapel also houses a four-manual, 65-rank Möller pipe organ, installed in 1966, which is frequently used for concerts and Evanston's annual Bach Week Festival.

Role in campus life

As the university's primary ceremonial space, McGaw Chapel is integral to the academic and spiritual rhythm of Northwestern University. It is the traditional site for the annual Convocation that welcomes new students, as well as the Baccalaureate service held during commencement weekend. Various student religious groups, including Cru, Hillel, and Muslim Students' Association, utilize the space for weekly services and holiday observances. The chapel's Office of Religious Life, often led by figures like former chaplain Timothy Stevens, coordinates interfaith dialogues and community service initiatives. Its central location near Deering Library and the Rebecca Crown Center makes it a daily crossroads for student life.

Notable events

Throughout its history, McGaw Chapel has been a forum for significant intellectual, cultural, and solemn events. It has hosted lectures by world leaders and thinkers such as Martin Luther King Jr., Eleanor Roosevelt, and Carl Sagan. Major musical performances include concerts by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and recitals by organist Frederick Swann. The chapel was the site of the university-wide memorial for the crew of the Space Shuttle Challenger, which included astronaut and alumnus Judith Resnik. More recently, it has served as a venue for panels during the Northwestern University conference on the Civil Rights Movement and vigil services following global tragedies.

See also

* Northwestern University * University Chapel (University of Chicago) * Rockefeller Memorial Chapel * Perkins&Will * Modern architecture

Category:Northwestern University Category:Churches in Cook County, Illinois Category:Buildings and structures in Evanston, Illinois Category:Perkins&Will buildings Category:1955 establishments in Illinois