Joined by numerous College representatives, William F. Concannon ’77 and College President Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P.  cut the ceremonial ribbon at the Concannon Fitness Center dedication and blessing.

William F. Concannon ’77 addresses the audience.

On a bright and balmy fall day, approximately 175 members and friends of the College community—including dozens of benefactors—listened and watched appreciatively as the ceremonies unfolded outside the main entrance to the gleaming $12 million facility.

Welcomed by the master of ceremonies, College Executive Vice President and Treasurer Rev. Kenneth R. Sicard, O.P. ’78, the audience heard remarks from Michael A. Ruane ’71, chair of the Board of Trustees; trustee William F. Concannon ’77, whose family provided the $2 million leadership gift for the center; and College President Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. ’80.

“This is another vehicle by which we can promulgate the Catholic and Dominican identity of the College,” said Ruane, who with his wife, Elizabeth, made a $1 million commitment to the fitness center that includes a challenge component which has enabled the College to raise an additional $250,000 to date for the project.

Admitting the dedication and blessing were “a big fuss” for his family and him, Concannon stated, “By now, you know how much we love PC, and we know you do, too.” He said PC “has always been my ideal of what a college should be.”

Father Shanley proclaimed the dedication to be one of the happiest days of his two years-plus presidency. “I am so grateful to God and to all of you for helping us get to this day,” 
he said.

The speakers noted the immediate impact of the Concannon Fitness Center. In addition to benefiting the health and fitness of the College community, it has transformed the look of the Main Campus, inspired a new sense of community, and assisted in recruiting student-athletes in its first month of operation.

Father Shanley reported that an average of 8,900 visits have been logged weekly at the fitness center.

Following the speaking program, Father Shanley, assisted by Father Sicard, blessed the audience and the main entrance before moving inside to bless the Atrium and the fitness center itself.

Afterwards, flanked by numerous College representatives, including the Very Rev. D. Dominic Izzo, O.P. ’88, chair of the Providence College Corporation and prior provincial of the Dominican Province of St. Joseph, Father Shanley and Concannon cut the ceremonial ribbon.

The completion of the fitness center capped a decade-long capital improvements drive that was highlighed by the construction of the Suites Hall residence facility, St. Dominic Chapel, and the Smith Center for the Arts.