A spirit of renewal and pride swept through northwest Detroit as Loyola High School celebrated the official opening of its newly expanded campus, complete with a stunning chapel, a welcoming entryway, and a tranquil student courtyard. The milestone marks the successful culmination of the school’s ambitious Empower Loyola capital campaign, which raised more than $9 million to support the school’s mission of educating young men for service, leadership, and spiritual growth.
In a historic moment for Detroit’s Catholic community, the John & Margaret Clark Memorial Chapel Complex—home to the new St. Peter Claver Chapel—becomes the first all-new Catholic place of worship built in the city in more than 60 years. The 5,250-square-foot sanctuary is a modern architectural jewel, featuring natural oak finishes, interlocking doors, and a 225-seat chapel awash in natural light from expansive skylights and a towering picture window behind the travertine marble altar.
Presiding over the blessing and dedication of the chapel was the Most Reverend Edward J. Weisenburger, newly appointed Archbishop of Detroit, making one of his first public appearances since taking on the role. Before a crowd of 200 donors, supporters, and community members, Archbishop Weisenburger spoke of the transformative power of faith and education.
“It was truly an honor to have Archbishop Weisenburger join us today,” said Dr. Deborale Richardson-Phillips, President of Loyola High School. “Throughout his career, His Excellency has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to encouraging young people to grow in their faith and service toward others, which mirrors our mission at Loyola. I hope our students will have the opportunity for many more interactions with the Archbishop in the future.”
At the corner of Fenkell and Pinehurst now stands the Wayne & Joan Webber Welcome Center, which serves as the new main entrance to the school. Designed with accessibility and community in mind, the center includes office and meeting space for staff, students, and visiting families.
The transformation of a former parking lot into a peaceful Student Courtyard further showcases the school’s investment in student well-being. With pavers, benches, ambient lighting, and landscaping, the space now also features a beloved symbol of school spirit: a deep blue, 8-foot-tall Bulldog statue—the proud mascot of Loyola High.
“This entire expansion is about more than just bricks and mortar,” said Barb Runyon, Chair of Loyola’s Board. “It’s about creating a space where students feel seen, supported, and inspired. The overwhelming generosity from our donors—many of whom are former students or longtime supporters—made this vision a reality.”
Founded in 1993 as a collaboration between the Archdiocese of Detroit and the Jesuits of the USA Midwest Province, Loyola High School continues to fulfill its mission of cultivating “Men for Others, Men for Detroit.” The school primarily serves young men from the surrounding community, and for 14 consecutive years, has maintained a 100% college acceptance rate for graduating seniors.
The Empower Loyola campaign launched publicly in September 2023, defying economic odds with an outpouring of community support.
“Thanks to the support of so many, this grand opening celebration will benefit our current and future students and their families for decades to come,” said Dr. Richardson-Phillips. “This isn’t just a win for Loyola—it’s a beacon of hope, growth, and pride for our entire northwest Detroit community.”
With faith at its foundation and community as its cornerstone, Loyola’s new spaces are more than additions—they are affirmations of the school’s deep and ongoing commitment to educating, uplifting, and empowering the next generation of Detroit’s leaders.
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