President Timothy C. Caboni joined members of the university’s administration to dedicate the newly completed Garrett Plaza, honoring WKU’s second president, Paul Garrett, and his wife, Virginia E. Garrett., Caboni was joined by members of the Garrett family.

Garrett served as WKU’s second president from 1937 until his death in February 1955, guiding the university through the Great Depression and World War II. His administration saw the expansion of the College Heights Foundation and the renaming of the institution from Western Kentucky State Normal School to Western Kentucky State College.

“Both Paul and Virginia Garrett were steadfast in their dedication to campus unification and we believe this space reflects their deep passion and commitment to enhancing the athletics of our campus,” Caboni said. “So this morning it is my honor to dedicate Garrett Plaza in tribute to Paul L. Garrett and his wife Virginia.”

Before ceremonially cutting the ribbon on the plaza, Caboni presented two of Garrett’s grandchildren, Pete Garrett and Anne Nicolaou, with commemorative gifts marking the occasion.

“As a gathering place for all, it combines my grandfather’s passion for students, with my grandmother’s passion for nature and both of their pride for the campus,” Pete Garrett said. “We are forever grateful for your continued commitment to our family’s heritage with Western Kentucky University.”

The dedication of Garrett Plaza marks the completion of the restoration of the top of the Hill, Caboni said.

“As this will be the final part of the restoration of the top of the Hill, The Commons at Helm Library, the Colonnade, Ivan Wilson Fine Arts Center, Potter Hall, Van Meter Hall, Gordon Wilson Hall and Cherry Hall now create a place at the top of the Hill for students to gather, for faculty to teach, and members of the WKU family to celebrate together,” said Caboni.

News Reporter Nicholas Basile can be reached at [email protected].