Winona State University will host an official dedication and reception for Haake Hall, formerly New Center West, at 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, as part of WSU’s annual Family Weekend Celebration.
The dedication ceremony will honor Winona native Paul Haake, whose legacy gift of nearly $1.5 million for scholarships is being recognized with the naming of Haake Hall.
“It is amazing the impact Winona State makes on its neighbors,” said Gary Evans, WSU Interim Vice President for University Advancement. “Here’s another case, where a neighbor, Paul Haake, developed a fondness for the institution and its students. Although he was not an alumnus, nor did he have any formal affiliation, Winona State was the biggest beneficiary of his estate. His gift is the largest in WSU history, and it will make a very big difference to our students.”
Haake was born and raised in Winona, graduated from Harvard University, and eventually became a well-distinguished chemist and educator at Wesleyan University and UCLA. Haake never forgot his Winona roots, and WSU was the primary beneficiary of his estate, with a legacy gift of nearly $1.5 million for scholarships.
Haake also created scholarships for WSU student-athletes and poetry contests at Winona Senior High and Middle School, and was known for regularly attending Winona’s summer festivals.
The short program will feature President Scott Olson, Evans, members of the Haake family and WSU students.
This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will also be provided.
For more information contact University Communications at 507-457-5024.
