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University of Jamestown Dedicates Restored Voorhees Chapel, Unruh School of Character in Leadership, and Reuben and Clarice Liechty Center for Faith and Life

Jamestown, ND (10/02/2025) — University of Jamestown celebrated a milestone in its history with the dedication of the newly restored Voorhees Chapel, the Unruh School of Character in Leadership, and the Reuben and Clarice Liechty Center for Faith and Life, on September 26, 2025.

The event marked the culmination of a multi-year, $24.5 million campaign and honored the vision and generosity of donors, alumni, and friends whose support has shaped the campus for future generations.

The dedication ceremony began with a welcome from Brett Moser, Vice President of Development, followed by an opening prayer from Kirstie Dobson, Director of Campus Ministry. President Dr. Polly Peterson addressed attendees, reflecting on the improbable journey from the university's founding to its current era of growth.

"Literally out of the ashes, the University of Jamestown has arisen-a place of light and truth, a place of renewal and hope," Peterson said.

The program featured remarks from alumni Jack Lawrence and Mark Wolf, who shared the legacy of Dr. Richard Smith, for whom the renovated sanctuary is named. The Dr. Richard Smith Alumni Choir, under the direction of Dr. Rebecca Raber, performed "Old Ship of Zion" and "Beautiful Savior," celebrating decades of musical excellence.

Lead donors Jim and Candy Unruh spoke about the importance of character education and their hopes for the Unruh School of Character in Leadership. "Character development starts for us as children, and then it's through our experiences, and it's through education. UJ can make a difference. The need is great," said Jim Unruh.

Clarice Liechty, whose family supported the creation of the center now bearing her and her late husband's names, expressed her prayer that "God's word and the example of Christ would also flow into our individual faith and lives."

A highlight of the ceremony was the blessing of the rare Heritage Edition of the Saint John's Bible, gifted by the late Elmer Schindel. The Rev. Dr. John Ross, Executive Director of The Saint John's Bible Heritage Program, led the prayer of blessing and emphasized the eternal impact of the space and its purpose.

Student speaker Mario DeCapite, a graduate assistant in campus ministry, shared his personal testimony of transformation through faith and community at the university, underscoring the impact of the restored chapel and new center on students' spiritual journeys. The event concluded with a prayer of dedication by Associate Professor Bill Weispfenning and a benediction sung by the combined choirs.

Following the ceremony, guests gathered for a ribbon-cutting and reception in the Reuben and Clarice Liechty Center for Faith and Life, which connects the chapel to the adjacent Badal-Nafus Student Union.

At the heart of the new center is The Well coffee bar, made possible by sponsorship from Unison Bank. The Well serves as a vibrant gathering place for students, fostering conversation, fellowship, and connection in a welcoming setting.

University leadership expressed gratitude to all donors and partners whose gifts made the project possible, including 177 donors who contributed a total of 312 gifts.

"Every dollar raised has been preciously invested for the benefit of our students, faculty, and staff," said Brett Moser.

The dedication of these new and renewed spaces marks a significant milestone in the University of Jamestown's ongoing commitment to education rooted in faith, service, and character.

Voorhees Chapel was originally constructed in 1917. UJ's Campus Ministry leads worship services there each Thursday.

About University of Jamestown

University of Jamestown is consistently ranked as a top regional university in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1883 as Jamestown College, UJ is a private, Christian liberal arts institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. At the bachelor's level, students can pursue degrees in the arts, sciences, and nursing. The university also grants master's degrees in business, education, leadership, technology and clinical counseling. Additionally, UJ provides doctoral programs in clinical research, character in leadership, and physical therapy. To expand access to its high-quality education, University of Jamestown launched UJ Accelerated, its online division, which delivers intensive upskilling opportunities to learners across diverse settings. For more information about academic offerings, campus life, and online programs, please visit UJ.edu.

Media Attachments

From left, UJ President Polly Peterson and lead donors Jim and Candy Unruh laugh during the Sept. 25, 2025, dedication. The Unruhs donated $15 million toward renovating Voorhees Chapel and creating the Unruh School of Character in Leadership.

Richard Liechty wraps his arm around his mother, Clarice Liechty, during the dedication of the Reuben and Clarice Liechty Center for Faith and Life.

The Dr. Richard Smith Alumni Choir, directed by Dr. Rebecca Raber, performs during the dedication of the University of Jamestown's newly restored Voorhees Chapel, the Unruh School of Character in Leadership, and the Reuben and Clarice Liechty Center for Faith and Life, on September 26, 2025.

The newly restored Voorhees Chapel, left, and the Reuben and Clarice Liechty Center for Faith and Life were dedicated September 26, 2025, at the University of Jamestown.

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