Campus hosts Topping Off Ceremony

On Fri., Oct. 30 at 1:30, the College hosted the Topping Off Ceremony for the Seegers Union Expansion. This event focuses on the raising of the final and highest, steel beam in the construction. Students, faculty, staff, administrators, alumni and the Board of Trustees were present to celebrate the momentous occasion. Warm beverages were served for those in attendance.The tradition includes a small pine tree, a tribute to the grain originally used, that typically adorns the final beam. The small tree has the dual significance of honoring the safe completion of the outer frame and representing good fortune to future inhabitants of the building.

Over time, American construction workers have added new traditions to the ancient ceremony. Now, in addition to the small pine tree, an American flag is proudly placed on the beam, as well.

The "topping off" honors the workers on the job for their diligence and dedication in reaching the important project milestone of completing the outer frame of the building. Usually, that honor is personalized by having all workers sign the beam before it is raised and secured in place.

In the case of the Seegers construction, students were given the chance to sign the beam. A week before the Topping Off Ceremony, the final steel beam was placed in Parents Plaza. The beam, which was painted red, was then signed by all members of the campus community.

Numerous members of the construction company and architecture firm gave speeches in tribute to the event, and the work achieved so far. President Helm gave a brief but entertaining speech about the background work that was put into the creation of the Seegers Union renovation.

Student Body President Jonathan Falk '10 also spoke of the history of the building, and the hope that is represented in the construction of the new addition.

"Every day when I walk by the renovation construction either giving a tour or heading to class the dream of the Union becomes clearer," said Falk '10. "This dream is now becoming a reality.