Donor Wall Design Challenge for the Schoenecker Center
At the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota, the Schoenecker Center stands as a state-of-the-art home for STEAM education. As part of its innovative design, the university aimed to feature a donor wall that highlights the contributions of the Schoenecker family, whose legacy deeply resonates across the campus. The challenge was to create a donor recognition display that honored the Schoenecker family’s contributions while inspiring future philanthropy, supporting donor stewardship, and reflecting the mission and values of the University of St. Thomas.
Vision for a Donor Recognition Experience
The vision for the Guy Schoenecker Donor Wall was to create an immersive donor recognition experience that connected stories from Guy Schoenecker’s life to the mission, innovation, and future impact of the Schoenecker Center. The goal was to celebrate the generosity and honor the lead naming donor to the project – the Schoeneckers Foundation – and its namesake, Guy Schoenecker, while also showcasing the dynamic learning that would take place within the new, $110 million facility.
STAR’s Donor Wall Design and Recognition Solution
STAR Exhibits approached this donor wall project with the meticulous care of an art installation, partnering closely with the University of St. Thomas from concept development through design, fabrication, and installation. STAR’s team focused on developing a design that beautifully integrates light, narrative, and architecture.
Donor wall design and storytelling concept
STAR crafted a visually striking donor recognition wall that incorporates stories from Guy Schoenecker’s life through lighting, materials, and experiential storytelling to create a meaningful and engaging visitor experience. The beauty of the dot-matrix design is in its ability to transform Guy’s image into an almost universal, fatherly figure that welcomes people into the building and into the dynamic, collaborative beauty of the space. This element is crucial in enabling the wall to pivot between being a donor recognition wall and an introduction to the building itself. Learn more.
Donor wall engineering and fabrication
The exhibit was meticulously engineered to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal. STAR utilized advanced materials and technology to bring the design to life, ensuring every detail was executed flawlessly. Learn more.
Installation and project management for the donor recognition display
STAR’s project management team coordinated every aspect of the installation, ensuring timely delivery and precision in execution. The team maintained continuous communication with the university to ensure the project met all specifications and timelines. Learn more.
Client Testimonial: “From the beginning, STAR approached this project like an art installation. They were a true partner in shaping our goals into a physical design. I cannot say enough about their professionalism, customer care, commitment to good design, and excellent craftsmanship,” said Carol Wilkie, Director of Donor Relations, University of St. Thomas.
Impact of the Donor Recognition Experience
The Guy Schoenecker Donor Wall was unveiled to great acclaim, transforming the space into a beacon of generosity and inspiration. The illuminated donor wall honors Guy Schoenecker’s legacy while celebrating the generosity of donors and fostering a sense of community.
Inspiration: The donor wall serves as a continuous source of inspiration, encouraging ongoing and future support from the university community.
Engagement: The installation has become a focal point within the Schoenecker Center, drawing visitors and sparking conversations about the importance of philanthropy.
Legacy: The project has solidified the Schoenecker family’s legacy at the University of St. Thomas, providing a lasting tribute to their contributions and the transformative power of education.
STAR’s partnership with the University of St. Thomas has resulted in a stunning and meaningful addition to the Schoenecker Center, reinforcing the university’s mission and the enduring impact of its supporters.
