Back to the Bridge - Delta College

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Back to the Bridge

Retired faculty step back in time

A group of retired faculty members returned to campus this spring to visit a Delta College landmark they helped build more than 45 years ago.

Members of the original team that constructed the Covered Bridge in 1975 gathered at a special event in May to take a walk down memory lane with Presidents Emeritus Dr. Jean Goodnow and Don Carlyon. The visit was held in conjunction with Delta’s annual employee fundraising campaign, which raised funds to repair and restore the bridge.

(Top) From left, John Kostoff, Dr. Jean Goodnow, Don Carlyon, Anne (Martin) Remington, Jim Verhanovitz, Ron Sharp, Eldon Enger, Joe Mazanec and Jack Crowell. (Left) Delta faculty: Richard Prentice and Jack Crowell (on the ladder). (Above) From left, Steve Gregory, Delta’s maintenance manager and Jim Verhanovitz, retired math professor.

The 30-foot bridge, located over Squaconning Creek on the east side of campus, was dedicated in 1976 as part of America’s Bicentennial celebrations. Construction of the bridge was led by faculty in the mathematics and science divisions.

Pam Clark, executive director of Institutional Advancement, said the bridge has been a favorite of walkers for generations.

“Many of our emeritus faculty members built the structure and now it’s our turn to reinforce its foundation and create stability for future users,” said Clark.

Due to erosion around the footings of the bridge, restoration efforts will include lifting support beams to level the decking and repair side and roof wood components.

Learn more about the history of the bridge at go.delta.edu/coveredbridge.