Forging the Future
Dining Hall/Great Hall Renovation Begins November 2025
Simpson College’s new dining hall will enhance student recruitment and retention by offering more food choices and a modern, welcoming environment. With students eating up to 500 meals a year on campus, improved dining experiences foster stronger campus connections. Key upgrades—like a new entryway, more natural light, and a link to Great Hall—will create a positive first impression for visitors. The space will support healthy living through fresh menus, better air quality, and views of Buxton Park, nourishing both body and mind.
Restored Great Hall Will Be Lively Gathering Space
Great Hall has long been a cherished space for music recitals, student dances, and community events, once praised by Dr. Robert Larsen ’54 for its exceptional acoustics. The upcoming renovation will restore its former vibrancy, reviving it as a hub for performances, student gatherings, and everyday campus life. It will serve not only as an event venue but also as a flexible space where students can dine, collaborate, and relax—bringing back the best of Great Hall and transforming it into a true campus living room. View the full rendering.
New Gymnastics Facility for Men’s & Women’s Gymnastics
Simpson College is planning a new 10,000-square-foot athletics facility on the north end of the west practice field, adjacent to the softball press box. Designed with fans in mind, it will include a new parking area with convenient access from Iowa Avenue. The project, estimated at $2.8 million, is scheduled for completion by December 2025.
This new facility will serve as the practice and competition space for both existing gymnastics programs and will become the future home of two new sports: Acrobatics & Tumbling and STUNT. These additions, along with the expansion of current programs, are expected to bring in approximately 112 new students. Plans also include developing a club-level program, led by current coaching staff, to engage local communities and generate revenue through rentals. Ultimately, Simpson envisions this facility evolving into a regional gymnastics training center, supporting Olympic hopefuls and reinforcing the College’s commitment to athletic and enrollment growth.
