October 15, 1997 marked the day Alverno College broke ground on the $12.7 million dollar Teaching, Learning and Technology Center. The 73,000 square foot domed building would literally turn Alverno College around as the westward facing structure would reorient the college main entrance to the west edge of the campus on 43rd street.
The building was the cornerstone of a $35 million dollar fundraising campaign, Building on Excellence, spearheaded by President Joel Read and the Alverno College Board of Trustees. The center would focus on the future of science and technology in the 21st century and would include science, computer, and multimedia labs, and a conference center.
Alverno College renamed the Teaching, Learning and Technology Center the Sister Joel Read Center in 2012 honoring its longest-serving president, Sister Joel Read (1968-2003.) The renaming ceremony took place on Saturday, October 6, 2012 as part of the college’s 125th anniversary homecoming celebration.
Sister Joel Read (1925-2017)
Alverno College President, 1968-2003
Sister Joel Read was the sixth president of Alverno College and served in that capacity from 1968-2003. Prior to her presidency, she was appointed to the Alverno faculty as a history professor in 1955. She was also an alumna of Alverno College having earned her Bachelor’s degree in 1948.
Sister Joel’s tenure at Alverno College marked a time of tremendous progress and change. Her 35- year presidency garnered state, national and international acclaim and recognition for the college. She was instrumental in moving the college curriculum into an ability-based program; initiating the first weekend college program in Wisconsin; and overseeing major capital campaigns to improve the college.
Learn more about the accomplishments of Sister Joel Read by visiting the exhibit, 130 Years and Counting! Highlights from Alverno's History.
