Among the reasons Jonathan Blanchard came to Wheaton in 1859 to found Wheaton College included its proximity to “Chicago, the Gate City between the Atlantic and Pacific, between Western Europe and Eastern Asia,” and his belief that “the Lord had need of Wheaton College, to aid in preparing the way for His coming.” 

Being well situated and having a mission that outlasts the centuries are positive aspects in Wheaton’s history. President Philip G. Ryken ’88 adds, “Also important to us is Wheaton’s welcome to all people from all nations, reflecting the hospitality of God’s grace to us.” 

One of the most significant ways the College takes up this responsibility is by welcoming visitors—undergraduate and graduate alumni who are returning “home,” thousands of annual conference guests, and especially prospective students and their families. 

Recently it has become clear that the joyful task of welcoming prospective students requires a dedicated home on campus. Director of Undergraduate Admissions Shawn Leftwich Wynne notes, “Given the high influx of people in the Student Services Building on a daily basis, we believe that a new dedicated space for hosting our guests will improve the experience of visiting and exploring our unique and attractive campus by relocating to a more convenient and accessible site.” 

To this end, to better serve our campus visitors, the College plans to build a new Welcome Center that will serve as Wheaton’s “front door,” where all can be warmly received, and where they can see and interact with visual presentations of Wheaton’s history, mission, and campus life.