Community Celebrates Transformation Of Walker Into Humanities/Arts Hub

All 650 students excitedly took turns signing the 10 large blocks (with Sharpie permanent markers), each slab of which was then set in place with signatures facing down, though permanently recording the successful conclusion of the two-year renovation.

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The project has transformed Walker into a state-of-the-art home for the humanities––History & Social Sciences, Visual & Performing Arts, and World Languages. The historic building, constructed in 1890, has been revived with beautiful, functional learning areas, including high-tech classrooms, shared departmental workspaces, and luminous art and theater practice rooms.

Every room now also features interactive whiteboard technology and built-in videotaping, as well as wireless access to the Internet.  An elevator and handicap lift have been installed, as have new lighting and wiring, plumbing, heating and cooling systems. Virtually no space has gone untouched and architectural efficiencies have grown square footage by thousands of feet.  In addition, six new classrooms allow for better, more flexible class scheduling, while instructional spaces for visual arts are infused with natural light, and theater classrooms provide plenty of space for movement and expression.

The Walker renovation makes the project eligible for a LEED Silver certification (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) as designated by the U.S. Green Building Council, an accreditation underscoring Worcester Academy’s commitment to environmental and financial sustainability.

Walker Hall continues to house several administrative offices—Admission, College Counseling, Business, and Head of School­­.  Furthermore, it is one of six Academy buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.

“Walker Hall is now an inspiring learning hub for our students as they pursue their study and passion for languages, history, theater, painting, ceramics, and much more,” said Ron Cino, head of school.  “It is also an important symbol for the WA community that we place great value in being good stewards of our historic campus, and in providing the best spaces for our students and teachers to learn and grow together as a thriving academic community.”

The Walker renovation is part of a $20 million, multi-building facilities improvement plan, Facilities improvements also have included the relocation of Information Services to the lower level of the Kellner Student Center and renovation of the Daniels Gymnasium exterior and roof.

“With the completion of these projects, we have achieved many important strategic goals,” Mr. Cino said.

Strategic goals have included, among other things:

A formal ribbon cutting for Walker Hall will be held on Oct. 10.  Alumni, parents, donors, and local officials will join students and others for the celebration.

Worcester Academy has been engaged in an ambitious capital campaign, OnWArd: The Campaign For Worcester Academy, with a goal of raising $50 million to strengthen facilities and programs directly benefiting students.

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