On April 26 under a cloud-covered sky, the brothers of Kappa Sigma Alpha ceremoniously broke ground on a long-awaited new home for the Greek society’s active members.
“We feel strongly that a permanent gathering space for actives and alumni, as well as residential space for KSA actives, is essential in the The University of Olivet environment,” said KSA brother Dick Penhallegon ’63, who organized the event. “Special thanks should go to President Corey, his administrative staff and the The University of Olivet Board of Trustees for their strong support and belief in this endeavor. This groundbreaking is a significant step forward in maintaining the tradition of KSA’s presence on campus as a responsible society.”
Located at 204 South Main Street in Olivet, the new building will take the place of the original KSA house, which was razed in 2013 due to its age and irreparable state.
“Engineers had assessed the old house and had given estimates of what it would cost to repair and maintain it,” said Ed Heator ’80, KSA brother and development officer for the college. “The Kappa Sig Alumni Board determined that it would be too costly to pursue the option of repair, so we decided to raise funds for a new campus home instead.”
A total of 114 KSA alumni donated to the project. The 1,800-square-foot building will house eight active members and include a spacious chapter room, kitchen and basement. It will be constructed to meet all ADA Standards for Accessible Design, and to conserve energy costs. “The new house is going to be smaller, energy efficient, and built to last 75 to 100 years,” Heator said.
The college is planning to host an official ceremony for the new KSA house during Homecoming 2016.