Penn State Altoona Dedicates Adam and Mary Christodoulos Gazebo

Through the collaborative efforts of the Class of 2004, a theatre arts instructor, and a generous friend of the college, future students and visitors to campus will have a beautifully serene setting in which to study, socialize, reflect, and relax.

The Adam and Mary Christodoulos Gazebo was dedicated on September 7 at a ceremony on campus. Located near the college's Ivyside Drive entrance, the gazebo is named in honor of the parents of Helen Christodoulos, a Penn State graduate and former Penn State Altoona student who made a gift to help construct it.

The landscaping surrounding the gazebo is a gift of the Class of 2004. From the earliest stages of design, the intention was to fuse the two acts of philanthropy into one work that will forever represent the shared commitment of Helen Christodoulos and the graduates of 2004.

The initial architectural design of the gazebo was created by Laurencio "Carlos" Ruiz, an instructor in Theatre Arts at the college. Ruiz also is designing and crafting ten stools and a table to be placed within the gazebo.

The furniture will be made from wood salvaged from oak trees that were forced to be cut down on campus.

"Adam and Mary Christodoulos were immigrants from Cyprus and Lebanon who inspired and motivated their daughter, Helen, through the wonderful example they set," states Lori J. Bechtel, chancellor of Penn State Altoona. "Adam and Mary possessed virtuous characters, strong work ethics, rich values, and high ideals and morals. Their influence is evident in the type of person Helen became."

A retired elementary school teacher, Christodoulos states that her gift to Penn State Altoona reflects her gratitude for the role her alma mater played in helping her to achieve her career goals. Through the gazebo project, Christodoulos selected an act of philanthropy that would be a fitting memorial to her parents and a resource for people throughout the campus and community.

"This is a community place," Christodoulos remarked during the dedication. "I want the gazebo to be used. That would make me very happy."