Dillon Gymnasium celebrates seventieth anniversary

The University’s Dillon Gymnasium, constructed in 1947 and home to renowned athletes such as Bill Bradley ’65, gold-winning captain of the 1964 US Olympic basketball team and former U.S. senator, celebrates its seventieth anniversary this year.

Having recently undergone renovations, Dillon Gym reopened all of its A-level facilities in 2016. Major changes to the gym included the addition of new corridors to facilitate access to various areas in the A-level, general improvements to the locker rooms and showers, and the introduction of gender inclusive facilities, which is part of a University-wide effort to establish such facilities across campus. Other changes include the new team rooms, as well as other new training facilities for students.

In celebration of Dillon Gym’s anniversary, the University has planned events for the year. Last week, from Feb. 6 through 12, the gym hosted fitness challenges each night from 7 to 9 p.m. Organizers served refreshments and displayed pictures of the gym throughout the years. Students could compete for various prizes, in events using Campus Recreation’s new prize wheel. Other programs are planned to be held throughout the year.

Director of Media Relations John Cramer noted that a magnet giveaway to commemorate the building’s milestone will soon happen. Additionally, a banner commemorating Dillon Gym’s anniversary, with illustrations by Campus Recreation student-staff members, is currently on display in the Dillon’s lobby.