Delta College held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Downtown Midland Center on the afternoon of April 22, 2019. 

During a busy week, which included the College’s annual Graduate Student Awards and Commencement ceremonies, the elected Trustees and administration, along with many community supporters, gathered at 419 East Ellsworth.

Delta College President Dr. Jean Goodnow, along with Board of Trustees Chair Diane Middleton, welcomed guests and described the project, which is located in a block bounded by Townsend, East Buttles, Cronkright and East Ellsworth. Two businesses, located in historic homes facing Townsend, will remain on the block.

As a major funder of the project, Dow President and Chief Financial Officer Howard Ungerleider stepped forward to celebrate the launch of this important educational effort. Dow and the Dow Corning Foundation provided a $6 million lead gift toward the construction of a new Delta College building in downtown Midland. 

“Together, we are doubling-down on our commitment to train tomorrow’s workforce ... and to build and sustain education, employment and prosperity throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region,” said Ungerleider.  “We at Dow couldn’t be prouder to be with all of you here today to share in that vision ... and in the creation of this extraordinary learning environment.”

During her comments, Goodnow said, “Delta College will have a prominent presence in downtown Midland, with open doors for students pursuing higher education. Working with employers like Dow will help students find a pathway to a career.”

The building’s design will project Delta’s strong belief in environmental sustainability, including grounds that feature beautiful landscaping. Having a walkable location will offer an experience that is of great interest to today’s young adults. 

Site demolition and construction began in May. Following a year of construction, Delta College will occupy the new three-story, 30,000-square-foot building by summer 2020. 

An estimated 400 to 500 students are anticipated to attend the first academic classes offered in the fall 2020 semester. 

Major funding for the new $13 million building was provided by Dow and the Dow Corning Foundation. Additional generous funders include: The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, the Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation, the Harry A. and Margaret D. Towsley Foundation, the Charles J. Strosacker Foundation and Chemical Bank.

The construction project manager is Spence Brothers Construction and the architectural firm is TowerPinkster. 

New Program for Area Educators

The building will also house a new program for area educators. Over the past several months, Dow, the University of Michigan and Delta College have collaborated to develop the Dow Innovation Teacher Fellowship, scheduled to launch soon. This initiative will provide area teachers with an immersive learning environment and education hub to inspire the workforce of tomorrow and create sustainable pathways that will have a positive impact on the environment and society.