Janet S. Dicke Gardens Dedication

The lush plants, colorful flowers and bright blue sky seemed to court the butterflies that were symbolically released to conclude the dedication ceremony of the Janet S. Dicke Gardens at Heidelberg. The dedication was the culminating event of Alumni Weekend 2007.

The gardens, plaza and an original sculpture titled The Rising by artist Bret Price of California, who was on hand for the dedication, are located at the south entrance of Gillmor Science Hall.

James Dicke II, a friend of Heidelberg, philanthropist and successful businessman, was the recipient of an honorary doctorate from the college in 2005. As chairman and CEO of the New Bremen-based Crown Equipment Corp., one of the world’s largest manufacturer of fork lifts, Jim has exhibited a strong commitment to community revitalization, the arts and historic preservation. His generous donation of funds to install the gardens, in honor of his wife, Janet, make a powerful statement about the vision of the college, said President F. Dominic Dottavio.

President Dottavio said he received many compliments from alumni who had returned for Alumni Weekend about the beauty of the campus. “But this is part of a broader vision for Heidelberg College because it will become part of the ‘living room’ for the college.”

The college is in the early stages of planning for a student recreation and activities center that is tentatively planned to be built across from the Dicke Gardens.

Avid art collectors, the Dickes also recently donated 64 pieces of art to the college. Included in the collection are 26 original paintings reminiscent of Dutch artists, wildlife prints, original posters from galleries, among others. Eleven of the paintings are by Francisco Sainz, a Spanish-born painter who came to the U.S. in 1944 seeking political asylum.

The artwork is being exhibited in various buildings on campus, including Campus Center, Gillmor Science Hall, Bareis Hall, Brenneman Music Hall, College Hall and Beeghly Library.

Another gift from the couple has helped to preserve a piece of Heidelberg history. The Dickes provided funds to the college for the purchase of the Octagon House on Perry Street. Built in 1852 by Dr. Jeremiah H. Good, a founder and professor of mathematics on the first faculty of Heidelberg, the house was in the center "professor's row." The Octagon House surpasses Founders Hall as the oldest building on campus. It will soon undergo a complete renovation.

During the dedication Sunday, President Dottavio called the Dickes’ gifts “transforming.”

“All of these gifts have enhanced the cultural, artistic and natural beauty of our campus. You are special people to Heidelberg, and we are so very pleased you have chosen to honor us with these gifts.”

Trustee, alumnus and fellow New Bremen native, the Rev. Ralph Quellhorst, echoed the president’s sentiments. “We are indebted to Jim for the many gifts that enhance the student experience at Heidelberg,” Quellhorst said.

Janet Dicke told those gathered for the dedication she was pleased the gardens will provide students an outdoor room to gather on a year-round basis.

 
Posted 6-18-2007